Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant is projected to be out for at least a week because of a sprained left ankle, according to reports. Durant sustained the injury during Sunday`s game against the Houston Rockets and was forced to leave in the third quarter. He will now be absent for the Suns` upcoming three-game road trip, which includes games against the Bucks, Celtics, and Knicks.
This injury is a significant setback for Durant and the Suns, especially as they are currently trying to secure a spot in the Play-In Tournament. They are currently a couple of games behind the Dallas Mavericks and Sacramento Kings in the standings. Adding to their challenges, the Suns have one of the most difficult remaining schedules in the league, even beyond the week Durant is expected to be out. Their schedule includes matchups against strong teams like the Warriors, Thunder, and Kings. The Suns` chances of making the play-in tournament are looking increasingly slim.
Durant`s injury happened in the third quarter when he stepped on the foot of Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. while driving to the basket. He immediately fell to the ground and was helped to the locker room, not returning to the game. At the time of the injury, Phoenix was trailing by a significant margin of 35 points.
Durant, known as one of basketball`s greatest scorers, had been playing exceptionally well recently. In the four games leading up to Sunday`s game, he averaged 33 points, five rebounds, and four assists, while shooting an impressive 61% from three-point range.
This season has been disappointing for Durant and the Suns, who had high expectations. Despite additions to their roster aimed at strengthening key positions, and the emergence of promising rookies, the team has struggled. They entered the season believing they could contend for a championship with stars like Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal.
However, their current record is 35-40 with only seven games left in the regular season, placing them 11th in the Western Conference. With Durant sidelined, the Suns` already slim hopes for a postseason run are even more precarious.
Given the persistent trade rumors surrounding the team this season, this injury could potentially signal the end of Durant`s time with the Suns.
Jasper Hawthorne