Thunder point guard Russell Westbrook is as competitive as they come in the NBA. It is that fire that has Westbrook close to receiving a one-game suspension due to his accumulation of technical fouls.
Through games played on March 6, Westbrook currently has 14 technical fouls this season, according to the NBA. Players receive an automatic one-game suspension once they reach the 16th technical foul threshold.
Westbrook is tied with Patrick Beverley for the most in the NBA.
The NBA reviews every technical foul issued and has the power to rescind fouls they deem unnecessary. Westbrook has had two fouls rescinded this season — on Feb. 5 and Feb. 11.
With just 18 games remaining for the Thunder in the regular season, it seems inevitable that Westbrook will pick up two additional technical fouls. As the playoff race heats up, his absence could prove to be crucial for the Thunder.
Players also receive a one-game suspension for every two technical fouls picked up after the 16th one (Ex: 18, 20, 22, etc.) but the count resets once the playoffs begin. In the postseason, seven technical fouls earn a suspension
Of course, the league reviews each technical foul so any additional ones Westbrook picks up may not necessarily stay permanent and could come off of his record.
