Why is Kevin Durant not playing? Rockets star out vs. Lakers in Game 1
Well, this isn't good for the Rockets.
The Houston Rockets got dealt a serious injury blow before Saturday night's NBA road playoff game against the Los Angeles Lakers. Rockets coach Ime Udoka shared on Saturday that Durant will not play in Game 1 of the playoff series because of a right knee injury sustained in practice this week . We're not sure when Durant will return for the Rockets at this point.
Hopefully for Houston, this won't be a serious absence for Durant. However, knee injuries are always tricky. It's possible Durant misses more games in the series, which would hurt Houston's chances against Los Angeles.
We hate seeing injuries pile up around playoff time. Breaking: Kevin Durant is out for Game 1 against the Lakers due to a right knee injury, coach Ime Udoka announced. pic.
twitter. com/db0fwiwLc3 ā ESPN (@espn) April 18, 2026 Perhaps Durant can get back for Game 2? This article originally appeared on For The Win: Kevin Durant injury update: Why is Rockets star not playing vs.