The Houston Rockets are heading into Game 2 with uncertainty surrounding Kevin Durant’s availability.
As the superstar forward continues to deal with a knee contusion, the Rockets listed him as questionable on the injury report against the Los Angeles Lakers. Houston head coach Ime Udoka considered Durant a game-time decision as early as Monday afternoon.
Just two hours before the game is set to tip off, Udoka confirmed that Durant is still considered a game-time decision.
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)
However, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Durant would be cleared to play.
via Shams Charania: Houston Rockets star Kevin Durant has been cleared to return for Game 2 against the Los Angeles Lakers after missing Game 1 due to a knee tendon bruise, sources tell ESPN.
In addition to discussing Durant’s playing status, Udoka included a key update for if/when Durant is cleared to return in Game 2: Durant will not have a restriction on his playing time. He plans to play a full playoff shift against the Lakers.
via Dave McMenamin, ESPN: Ime Udoka on Kevin Durant for Game 2: “He’s testing it out right now.” Udoka added that if KD is cleared to play, he will not be on a minutes restriction.
The Rockets Need To Get Back On Track
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – MARCH 23: Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets looks on before a game against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on March 23, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (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 Geoff Stellfox/Getty Images)
Heading into Game 1 of the Lakers-Rockets series, Houston had a major advantage at first. The Lakers ruled out Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
On the night before the matchup, the Rockets downgraded Durant to questionable. After the star forward went through his warmups, Durant was ruled out for the matchup. It was a shocking development for the Rockets.
While the Rockets were still favored, the Lakers took advantage of Durant’s absence. LA pulled off a 107-98 victory to take a 1-0 series lead.
At that point, many questioned whether the Rockets could take down the Lakers or not, especially with the Durant situation looming.
The superstar forward is doing what he can to make sure his team gets back on track. Durant is on pace to make his Houston Rockets playoff debut.
In 13 playoff runs, Durant has played over 170 games. He posted averages of 29.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists in the postseason.
The Lakers and the Rockets are slated for a 10:30 PM ET tip.