Report: Rockets sitting Westbrook vs. Grizzlies for rest
The Houston Rockets will rest guard Russell Westbrook on Monday against the Memphis Grizzlies, a source told ESPN's Tim MacMahon.
Houston is playing in the second game of a back-to-back following its blowout loss Sunday to the Miami Heat.
The Rockets exercised caution with Westbrook during training camp after the former Oklahoma City Thunder guard underwent knee surgery over the offseason. Having him sit out Monday is a continuation of that approach, MacMahon added.
Rockets head coach Mike D'Antoni originally planned to give Westbrook the night off Monday, but it appeared he may reconsider after the All-Star guard played only limited minutes during Sunday's lopsided defeat.
The 30-year-old has adjusted swiftly to his new team following the blockbuster summer swap that sent Chris Paul to the Thunder. Westbrook is averaging 21.2 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 9.2 assists in six games this season. However, he scored just 10 points on 3-of-11 shooting to go with six assists and four rebounds in 26 minutes Sunday.