Westbrook unlikely to play in both games of back-to-back sets

Washington Wizards star Russell Westbrook is unlikely to play in both games of the team's back-to-back sets this upcoming season, head coach Scott Brooks told reporters Sunday, according to Chase Hughes of NBC Sports Washington.

"This is going to be a grind. He's not a youngster anymore even though he still has as much energy as anybody as I've seen," Brooks said.

The Houston Rockets handled the All-Star guard in a similar manner during the 2019-20 campaign.

Westbrook has been fairly durable during the last several seasons. However, he's undergone multiple surgeries on his right knee.

The 32-year-old averaged 27.2 points, 7.9 boards, and seven assists across 57 appearances for the Rockets last season. He also earned his second straight All-NBA third-team selection.

Washington acquired Westbrook from Houston for longtime Wizards guard John Wall and a future first-round pick.