Why will Kevin Durant miss the Rockets' playoff opener?

Kevin Durant will miss Game 1 due to a bruised right knee sustained during practice, which makes his knee tender and limits movement.

Which Lakers players are injured for the playoff opener?

The Los Angeles Lakers are playing without NBA scoring champion Luka Doncic and guard Austin Reaves, both sidelined with injuries.

When will Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves return?

Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are out indefinitely, though Doncic traveled to Europe for treatment hoping to return sooner.

Home / Sports / Durant Out for Rockets Opener vs. Lakers

Durant Out for Rockets Opener vs. Lakers

19 Apr

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Summary

Kevin Durant will miss Game 1 with a bruised knee.
Lakers also without Doncic and Reaves due to injury.
Playoff series starts without either team's top scorer.

Durant Out for Rockets Opener vs. Lakers

Kevin Durant has been ruled out of the Houston Rockets' playoff opener against the Los Angeles Lakers due to a knee injury. Coach Ime Udoka confirmed Durant's absence for Game 1 on Saturday night, though the team hopes it is a short-term issue.

Durant sustained a bruised right knee during practice earlier in the week, impacting his ability to move. The Rockets will start Reed Sheppard in his place against the Lakers, who are already dealing with the indefinite absences of Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Both Lakers guards were injured on April 2.

The series begins with a significant challenge for both teams, as their leading scorers are unavailable. The Lakers aim to stay competitive long enough for Doncic and Reaves to potentially return later in the postseason. Durant's absence marks his 14th playoff appearance and a continuation of his playoff rivalry with LeBron James.

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