Houston Rockets star Kevin Durant is officially listed as questionable with a right knee contusion on the latest injury report ahead of the NBA Playoffs‘ first-round Game 2 clash against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Regaining Durant’s services is essential for the Rockets, especially after dropping Game 1 with a 107-98 loss. According to head coach Ime Udoka, the star’s participation will be a game-time decision, though recent reports indicate Durant is slated for a Game 2 return.
The absence of the former Golden State Warriors star is a major blow given his stellar debut season in Houston. Appearing in 78 games—his highest total since the 2018-19 season—Durant averaged 26.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists while shooting an efficient 52.0% from the field and 41.3% from deep.
Udoka provides positive injury update
Ahead of the series opener, the Rockets‘ head coach reassured fans by revealing that imaging tests showed no structural damage to Durant’s knee. However, Udoka noted that the forward’s main hurdle remains his mobility.
Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets. (Getty Images)
“He went through about half of the practice,” Udoka said after practice on Monday. “I would say mobility probably is most important. The pain tolerance is one thing, but actually moving and feeling comfortable doing all the movements is going to be the biggest thing”.
Lakers resilient despite short-handed roster
The Lakers‘ Game 1 victory was a statement win, made even more impressive by the fact that both Luka Doncic nor Austin Reaves were out due to late-season injuries.
In their absence, LeBron James served as the team’s engine, delivering a masterclass with 19 points, eight rebounds, and 13 assists. Furthermore, Luke Kennard provided a massive spark in the starting lineup, tallying a game-high 27 points on a perfect 5-for-5 from three-point range, along with four rebounds and three assists.
