All eyes will be on Houston Rockets star Kevin Durant’s status ahead of the team’s second game of the 2026 NBA playoffs first-round series against the Los Angeles Lakers. Durant was ruled out as a game-time decision in Saturday’s series opener. The Rockets felt his absence as they shot just 37.6% from the field in the 107-98 upset loss, despite taking 27 more shots than the Lakers.
Ahead of Game 2, Durant is listed as questionable again. He will be a game-time decision. The Rockets continue to list him due to a right knee contusion. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported on Monday that Durant was dealing with a deep bruise in his right patellar tendon, which increased concerns around his availability for Game 2.
“My understanding is Kevin Durant is dealing with a deep bruise in his right patellar tendon that he suffered last Wednesday during a practice drill when he was chasing after a loose ball and collided that knee with a teammate,” Charania said.
“That has since caused swelling, pain, it’s impacted his range of motion in the leg as well. And for Kevin Durant to miss a playoff game, that speaks to the severity of the injury itself. And the Rockets, they’re optimistic Kevin Durant would be able to return as soon as Game 2.”
On the other hand, Rockets coach Ime Udoka shared that Durant went through half of the team’s drills on Monday. Udoka reiterated that Durant’s a game-time decision and that his status will depend on his mobility.
Kevin Durant’s knee heavily taped up in practice footage
Kevin Durant’s knee was heavily taped up in practice footage shared by Rockets beat reporter Vanessa Richardson on X. Durant seemed to have a minor limp as he went through a movement shooting drill, jogging lightly to the top of the key.
That video raised concerns among the Rockets fan base, too. Some even expressed that the Rockets shouldn’t rush him if he’s not close to 100%. Houston lost the first game, but it remains a five-point favorite. The Rockets were solid outside their shooting woes, forcing 18 turnovers and grabbing 21 offensive rebounds.
They continue to have a size and athleticism advantage over the Lakers, which could help them win Game 2 without Durant and eliminate Los Angeles’ homecourt advantage.
