Kevin Durant was unable to play in the series-clinching win over Houston last week, and he’s likely to miss the first two games of the Western Conference Finals, too.
ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne shared Monday that “Durant is out for at least Game 1” of the team’s upcoming series against Portland. She added that he won’t be re-evaluated until Thursday so it’s “unlikely” he’ll play in Game 2.
Durant suffered what was described as a “mild” right calf strain during Game 5 of Golden State’s series against the Rockets. He took an awkward step and then came up lame, instantly grabbing the back of his leg. Durant then went straight into Golden State’s locker room and never returned.
One of the best players in the postseason this year, Durant has averaged 34.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.9 assists, 1.0 blocks and 1.2 steals per game. Needless to say, as good as the Warriors are without him, having that kind of firepower back in the lineup can only serve to strengthen this team.