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Durant sidelined, Rockets and Lakers split playoff games

PUBLISHED Apr 25, 2026, 4:29 PM ET

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HOUSTON — Kevin Durant missed Games 3 and 4 of the Houston Rockets’ Western Conference first-round series this week after experiencing a left ankle sprain that later was described as a bone bruise, coach Ime Udoka said. Durant was absent from the bench during Friday’s 112-108 overtime loss to the Los Angeles Lakers and did not play in Sunday night’s 115-96 Rockets victory. Udoka told reporters Saturday that Durant was receiving treatment and that his availability remained a game-to-game decision as swelling and mobility improved; the coach described a possible return this season. Team practices were light ahead of the next matchup, and medical updates will determine Durant’s status for Game 5, scheduled Wednesday night in Los Angeles.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

April 2: Luka Doncic suffered a left hamstring strain and began limited court work.
Game 1: Kevin Durant sat out with a bruised right knee and was unavailable.
Game 3 (Friday): Durant was sidelined with a sprained left ankle; Rockets lost 112-108 in overtime.
Saturday: Coach Ime Udoka reported Durant was receiving treatment and emphasized a game-to-game outlook.
Game 4 (Sunday): Durant missed the game with a bone bruise; Rockets won 115-96, extending the series to Game 5.

News Intelligence

If you're a Rockets fan, Durant's absence is a big deal. His injury impacts the team's performance and could sway the series outcome. Keep an eye on official updates before Game 5.

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Who Benefited

The Los Angeles Lakers gained competitive advantage in the series when Kevin Durant was unavailable, while the Rockets relied on other rotation players to secure a Game 4 victory and extend the series.

Who Impacted

The Houston Rockets experienced leadership and on-court continuity challenges as Durant's ankle sprain and subsequent bone bruise limited his availability, subjecting the team to public scrutiny and forcing game-by-game roster decisions.

Media Bias