Why is Kevin Durant missing the Rockets' playoff opener?

Kevin Durant is out for Game 1 against the Los Angeles Lakers due to a bruised right knee that is tender and limits his movement.

When did Kevin Durant sustain his knee injury?

Kevin Durant sustained his knee injury during practice on Wednesday, April 16, 2026.

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Durant Out! Rockets Face Lakers Without Star

Q: Which Lakers players are also injured for the playoff series?

The Lakers are playing without NBA scoring champion Luka Doncic and guard Austin Reaves, who are both injured indefinitely.

19 Apr

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Summary

Kevin Durant is out for Game 1 with a knee injury.
Lakers also missing Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
Durant's injury occurred during practice on Wednesday.

Durant Out! Rockets Face Lakers Without Star

Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant has been ruled out of Game 1 of the playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers due to a knee injury. Coach Ime Udoka confirmed on Saturday night that Durant's bruised right knee is too tender for him to play, though the team is hopeful it's a short-term issue. Durant sustained the injury during practice on Wednesday, hitting his knee in an awkward spot.

Durant, who led the Rockets with 26.0 points per game this season, will be replaced in the starting lineup by Reed Sheppard. The Lakers are also shorthanded, missing NBA scoring champion Luka Doncic and guard Austin Reaves indefinitely due to hamstring and oblique injuries, respectively, both sustained on April 2. Their typical recovery time is several weeks.