Kevin Durant (right knee) ruled out for Game 1 vs. Lakers
NBA • • sports
Key Points:
- Kevin Durant will miss the Houston Rockets’ playoff opener against the Los Angeles Lakers due to a bruised right knee, though the Rockets believe it is not a long-term issue.
- Durant injured his knee in practice and was unable to play in Game 1, with Reed Sheppard replacing him in the starting lineup.
- The Lakers will also be without key scorers Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, both sidelined indefinitely with injuries.
- Lakers coach JJ Redick emphasized the team’s goal to extend the season to allow Doncic and Reaves a chance to return during the playoffs.
- This playoff series marks Durant’s 14th postseason appearance and his fourth meeting against LeBron James, who has faced him in three NBA Finals.
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