This Kevin Durant playoff statistic doesn’t even seem real

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This Kevin Durant playoff statistic doesn’t even seem real

Originally posted on NBA on ClutchPoints
By Julian Ojeda, ClutchPoints | Last updated Apr 17, 2026 2:43 PM ET

The Houston Rockets are set to open their first-round playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers, but a surprising statistic surrounding Kevin Durant has added another storyline entering the matchup.

A post shared by ClutchPoints on Friday highlighted Durant’s recent playoff struggles, noting a stretch that dates back multiple seasons during his time with the Phoenix Suns.

“Kevin Durant has not won a playoff game since 2023

He has personally lost 6 straight playoff games, with the last win coming against the Nuggets in Game 4 of the West Semifinals.”

Durant’s last postseason action came in 2024, when the Phoenix Suns were swept in the first round by the Minnesota Timberwolves. He did not appear in the playoffs last season after Phoenix missed the postseason entirely before his eventual move to Houston.

The statistic stands in contrast to Durant’s reputation as one of the league’s most accomplished postseason performers. A former Finals MVP and perennial scoring leader, Durant has long been regarded as a reliable presence in high-pressure situations.

Did you know…

Kevin Durant has not won a playoff game since 2023

He has personally lost 6 straight playoff games, with the last win coming against the Nuggets in Game 4 of the West Semifinals. pic.twitter.com/Pmk0f2XSI3

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) April 17, 2026

Kevin Durant looks to snap playoff skid as Rockets face injury-hit Lakers

Now 37, Durant will look to reverse that trend as he leads Houston into Game 1 on Saturday at 5:30 p.m. PT at Crypto.com Arena. The Rockets enter the series seeking a breakthrough against a Lakers team that won the regular-season series 2-1, including two victories in March.

While Durant’s playoff drought has drawn attention, the Lakers are dealing with significant challenges of their own. Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are both expected to miss time due to injuries, leaving Los Angeles shorthanded at the start of the series.

Doncic is recovering from a hamstring strain, while Reaves is sidelined with a Grade 2 oblique injury. Their absences could impact the Lakers’ offensive structure and place added pressure on remaining contributors.

The matchup presents contrasting narratives. Houston will rely on Durant to snap his playoff skid and reestablish his impact, while Los Angeles must navigate early games without two key guards.

With the series set to begin, Durant’s ability to change the narrative and the Lakers’ ability to withstand early adversity will likely shape the outcome of the opening round.

This article first appeared on NBA on ClutchPoints and was syndicated with permission.

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