Durant was on the court for pregame warmups but did not play after testing the knee. He had practiced with the Rockets all week in preparation for Game 1, but the decision was made to sit him for Saturday’s game.
Rockets coach Ime Udoka explained the setback, noting Durant was hit in an awkward spot above the patellar tendon during practice. Imaging showed nothing major, but the knee remains very tender and difficult to bend in certain ways, making a quick return unclear.
Durant’s absence is a major blow for Houston, removing a key offensive catalyst as the team looks to contend in a tightly contested playoff opener. In three games against the Lakers this season, Durant averaged 20.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.7 assists.
The Lakers, meanwhile, are dealing with their own injury questions, missing two core players: Austin Reaves (oblique) and Luka Doncic (hamstring). Doncic has been a major factor in recent meetings with Houston, and someone else will need to step up to fill the scoring load.
Game 1 is set for 8:30 PM ET. If Durant is able to return, his next opportunity would come in Game 2 on Tuesday, April 21, in Los Angeles.
