Rockets star Durant out for Game 1 vs Lakers

Houston Rockets star Kevin Durant is out for Game 1 against the LA Lakers. This is a big change from when he was expected to play.
By Newsroom | Basketball, NBA |

Rockets Without Star Forward for Game 1 Against Lakers

The Houston Rockets are set to face the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 1 of their playoff series without Kevin Durant. Durant sustained a right knee injury during practice earlier this week, an absence confirmed by coach Ime Udoka. This development casts a significant shadow over the highly anticipated matchup, the 10th all-time playoff meeting between the two franchises.

The absence of a star player in a high-stakes playoff opener is a critical factor that immediately reshapes expectations and strategic considerations for both teams.

The game is scheduled to tip off at 8:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, April 18, from the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Broadcast coverage will be available on ABC and the ESPN app, with additional options including DIRECTV.

Lakers' Reliance on Ayton Amidst Injury Concerns

Adding to the Lakers' potential challenges, reports indicate that Deandre Ayton's performance will be crucial, particularly with injuries to Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. This places a heavier burden on Ayton to deliver for the Lakers' success.

Read More: Kevin Durant Out of Rockets' Playoff Game 1 vs Lakers

Broader Playoff Picture

The Lakers vs. Rockets series opener is the final game of the day's playoff slate, following other first-round matchups. Other notable games include the New York Knicks facing the Atlanta Hawks and the Denver Nuggets securing a Game 1 victory guided by Nikola Jokić's triple-double. The Cavaliers also started their series strong against the Raptors, with Donovan Mitchell scoring 32 points.

Rockets Series Schedule:

GameDateLocationBroadcast
1April 18at LakersABC, ESPN app, DIRECTV
2TBDat LakersNBC, Peacock, DIRECTV
3TBDat Rockets
4TBDat RocketsNBC, Peacock, DIRECTV
5*TBDat Lakers
6*TBDat Rockets
7*TBDat Lakers

*Games 5, 6, and 7 are potential if necessary.

Background:

The NBA Playoffs continue with a packed schedule across the league. This year's postseason marks a critical juncture for many teams, where legacies are forged. For the Rockets, this series represents another chapter in their playoff rivalry with the Lakers, a history that dates back through multiple eras of the league. Information regarding longer postseason droughts in other major sports leagues—NFL, MLB, and NHL—also surfaced in related reports.

Read More: Steve Kerr unsure about coaching Golden State Warriors next season

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Kevin Durant not playing in the Rockets vs Lakers Game 1 on April 18?
Kevin Durant hurt his right knee in practice this week. Coach Ime Udoka said he will not play in the first game against the Lakers.
Q: What time and channel is the Rockets vs Lakers Game 1 on April 18?
The game starts at 8:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, April 18. You can watch it on ABC and the ESPN app.
Q: Who else is injured for the Lakers that might affect the game?
Deandre Ayton's play is very important for the Lakers. They are also worried about injuries to Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
Q: What other NBA playoff games are happening?
The New York Knicks are playing the Atlanta Hawks. The Denver Nuggets won their first game with Nikola Jokić's triple-double. The Cavaliers also won their first game against the Raptors.