Rockets Announce Kevin Durant Injury Update Before Game 1 vs. Lakers

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Apr 17, 2026 8:34 PM ET

Kevin Durant is looking to lead the Houston Rockets in their first-round series against the Los Angeles Lakers.

The Rockets finished the regular season with a 52-30 record for fourth in the Western Conference. They face the fourth-seeded Lakers, who have home-court advantage in the series.

Game 1 is on Saturday at Crypto.com Arena. The Rockets have submitted their injury report, and there is now some doubt on Durant’s status for the series opener.

Durant did not play in Houston’s final game of the regular season. He sat out against the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday for rest purposes. Right now, Durant is dealing with a knee issue.

Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant.Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Rockets submitted their injury report for Game 1, and the major development is that Durant has been added to the same.

The 16-time All-Star is officially considered questionable to play with a right knee contusion.

Durant’s injury does not seem serious. He is dealing with a bruise on his right knee, but there have been no indications that it is a significant injury. Either way, his final status should be determined closer to tipoff on Saturday.

Given the importance of Game 1, however, only a major injury is going to prevent Durant from suiting up against LeBron James and Co.

Durant is having a big year in his first season in Houston. He played 78 games in the regular season, averaging 26.0 points on 52.0% shooting. The former NBA MVP also registered 5.5 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 2.4 triples in 36.4 minutes per contest.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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