Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant sustained a left ankle sprain during Sunday`s game against the Houston Rockets, which they lost 148-109. The injury occurred in the third quarter. According to Suns coach Mike Budenholzer, Durant will have an MRI on Monday. He will not accompany the team initially on their upcoming road trip consisting of three games against the Bucks, Celtics, and Knicks.
Currently, there is no set return date for Durant due to the recent nature of the injury. Ankle sprains typically sideline players for at least a week. This injury is particularly unfortunate for Durant and the Suns, as they are currently outside of the Play-In Tournament picture. They are currently two games behind the Dallas Mavericks and Sacramento Kings in the loss column.
Durant`s injury happened with just under seven minutes remaining in the third quarter. He stepped on Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr.`s foot while driving to the basket. Durant immediately fell to the ground and was later helped to the locker room, not returning to the game. At the time of the injury, Phoenix was trailing by 35 points.
Durant, recognized as one of basketball`s greatest scorers, had been performing exceptionally well recently. In the four games leading up to Sunday, he averaged 33 points, five rebounds, and four assists, while shooting an impressive 61% from three-point range.
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This season has been below expectations for Durant and the Suns. Acquisitions like Tyus Jones, Monte Morris, and Nick Richards were intended to strengthen the point guard and center positions. Rookies Ryan Dunn and Oso Ighodaro have also proven to be valuable rotation players. The team had aspirations of championship contention with stars Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal.
However, their current record is 35-40 with seven regular-season games remaining, placing them 11th in the Western Conference. If Durant is sidelined for a significant period, Phoenix`s season could be in jeopardy, especially with upcoming games against the Warriors, Thunder, and Kings after their East Coast road trip.
Considering the persistent trade rumors this season, Durant`s injury might also signal a possible end to his time with the Suns.
