NBA Trade Rumors 2014 Update: With Russell Westbrook Out With Knee Injury, OKC Thunder Could Enter Trade Talks

Russell Westbrook underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right knee on Friday that would sideline the Oklahoma City Thunder's star guard until the 2014 NBA All-Star break.

Oklahoma City Thunder general manager Sam Presti told Yahoo Sports that the All-Star guard recently underwent an MRI due to swelling on his knee. The MRI revealed a new area of concern on his right knee, forcing the team medical staff to have Westbrook undergo surgery to address the swelling.

"On the most recent MRI, it was determined by the surgeon that there was an area of concern that had not previously existed, nor was detectable in the previous procedures, and it was necessary to evaluate Russell further," Presti said. "The consulting physician determined that arthroscopic surgery was necessary to address the swelling that was taking place. We know that Russell's work ethic and commitment will help him return to the level of play that we have all come to appreciate."

Presti added that the team will closely monitor Westbrook's situation before giving a definite timetable for his return. Presti added that the 25-year-old guard could also miss some of Oklahoma City's games after the break, which means that Westbrook will likely miss at least the next 27 games.

Westbrook has had issues with his that knee in the past, having missed the playoffs last April after a collision with Houston Rockets guard Patrick Beverley during Game 2 of OKC's first-round series against Houston caused a lateral meniscus tear in Westbrook's right knee.  

With Westbrook out, the Thunder are expected to lean on emerging guard Reggie Jackson, while veteran Derek Fisher could also get significant boost on his playing time.

Westbrook's injury also sparked debate whether or not the Thunder should trade for another point guard. When asked about the possibility, Presti did not give a clear answer, saying that it is too early to speculate whether or not they need to make a move.

"We're concentrating on supporting Russell," Presti said. "It's way too early to look at anything. We will evaluate the present situation, but it's a little too early to speculate on the team and the roster."

If the Thunder decides to pull the plug on a trade for a proven point guard, they are expected to talk with the Toronto Raptors for a possible trade involving Kyle Lowry, who has been shopped by the Raptors in the past few weeks. It is unclear, though, who are they willing to give up in a potential trade for a veteran point guard while Westbrook is out.