Heading into Game 2 of the series between the Houston Rockets and the Los Angeles Lakers, Kevin Durant’s status is up in the air.
Before Game 1, Durant was added to the injury report due to a knee contusion. Although he went through the week of practice leading up to the start of the series, Durant suffered his setback during one of the sessions.
The setback didn’t seem severe, but it was bad enough to shockingly have him ruled out for the first set of action in the series. Suddenly, the Rockets went from overwhelming favorites to taking on a loss against the Lakers. And once again, the status of Durant is unknown.
GettyHOUSTON, TEXAS – APRIL 10: Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets reacts against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the second half at Toyota Center on April 10, 2026 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)
On the injury report, Durant is questionable. The head coach, Ime Udoka, made it clear Durant would be a game-time decision.
While the unknown status of Durant is certainly concerning, the updates on Durant from Monday’s practice session on April 20 have sprinkled some positivity into the mix.
Kevin Durant Gets A Positive Practice Report
via Will Guillory, The Athletic: Kevin Durant is here getting shots up after Rockets practice today in LA. Looks like he’s got some type of tape on his right knee. Appears to be moving around much better than he was a few nights ago.
Appears to be moving around much better than he was a few nights ago.
The Rockets haven’t spent too much time playing without Durant this season.
The 37-year-old forward was on the floor for 78 games. He averaged 26.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game. He finished the season by shooting 52.0% from the field and draining 41.3% from three.
Although Houston was successful in the few games without Durant, the playoffs are a different beast. The games hold so much more weight, and anything can happen on any given night. Houston’s loss of Durant proved to be more detrimental to the Rockets than the Lakers’ Luka Doncic-Austin Reaves void.
GettyHOUSTON, TEXAS – APRIL 10: Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets looks on against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the second half at Toyota Center on April 10, 2026 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)
Alperen Sengun led the way for Houston, scoring 19 points. He also had eight rebounds and six assists. Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard both produced 17 points, while Jabari Smith Jr. and Tari Eason put up 16 points of their own.
The Rockets were defeated 107-98. Heading into Game 2, the Lakers hold the lead at home.
Durant seems to be moving in the right direction, but simply moving better at practice doesn’t guarantee he’ll be available for Game 2. The Rockets will decide on Durant’s status shortly before tipping off. The game is scheduled for a 10:30 PM ET tip.