Russell Westbrook a game-time decision against the Heat

Still waiting.

Scott Brooks told reporters today at practice that Russell Westbrook partook in the team’s full contact drills, but will be a game-time decision for Thursday’s game against the Heat.

Previously, Kevin Durant had said Westbrook would return for that game. And while that’s still very much a possibility — and likely a probability — until his name is officially on the active roster, we’ll have to wait and see.

Westbrook has been out since Dec. 26 when he underwent a second arthroscopic knee procedure to help alleviate swelling. And in his absence, the Thunder have found themselves well going 22-8 and taking a commanding 3.5 game lead in the Western Conference.

Obviously Westbrook’s pending return raises a few questions — more on that later — but know this simple fact: The Thunder are infinitely better with Russell Westbrook on the floor. They’re 21-4 with him this season and basketball changes in the postseason. If you have dreams of seeing a banner lifted in OKC this season, it’s only happening with a healthy Westbrook.