NBA playoffs 2026: Kevin Durant cleared to play in Game 2 of Rockets-Lakers

Kevin Durant is just one of the major injuries looming large in Lakers-Rockets.

(Alex Slitz via Getty Images)

The Houston Rockets will have Kevin Durant for Game 2 against the Los Angeles Lakers, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.

The former MVP missed Game 1 with a knee contusion, but apparently felt good enough pregame on Tuesday to take the court. Rockets head coach Ime Udoka indicated to reporters he will not be on a minutes restriction.

It will be the first time Durant has played Lakers star LeBron James in the playoffs since their Golden State Warriors-Cleveland Cavaliers clash in the 2018 NBA Finals. Durant will also be seeking his first playoff win since 2023.

Durant’s health became a surprise factor before the series, when he was initially deemed questionable for Game 1 then ruled out. He reportedly sustained the injury in practice, with the Rockets initially optimistic it wouldn’t impact the series.

That didn’t come to pass. With Durant out, the Houston offense was completely out of sync and got out-paced by a Lakers offense led by James and Luke Kennard, losing 108-97. The Rockets collectively shot 37.6% from the field with 13 turnovers.