Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant will miss Game 3 of their first-round playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday due to a left ankle sprain. The injury occurred in the fourth quarter of Game 2, where Durant scored 23 points but committed nine turnovers amid heavy double-teaming. The Rockets trail 2-0 after road losses in Los Angeles.
Durant sat out Game 1 with a knee injury sustained in practice last week but returned for Game 2. Rockets coach Ime Udoka confirmed the ankle sprain happened late in that contest, leading to swelling that has ruled Durant out for Game 3. With Game 4 set for Sunday, Durant faces a tight recovery timeline as Houston nears elimination at 2-0 down in the series. nnThe Lakers also deal with health issues, as guard Austin Reaves will miss Game 3 but remains a game-time decision for Game 4 due to a strained oblique from the regular season's end. Luka Dončić is recovering in the background, potentially aiding Los Angeles' momentum. nnWithout Durant, the Rockets turn to one of the youngest starting lineups in playoff history: Amen Thompson, Tari Eason, Reed Sheppard, Jabari Smith Jr. and Alperen Şengün. Veterans including Steven Adams and Fred VanVleet provide support, but Houston's season hinges on its young core stepping up in this critical matchup.
