Kevin Durant ignites excitement across Rockets nation

2 hours ago 3

Kevin Durant is back in the gym and is making his mark.

Just an hour after NBA analyst Shams Charania dropped a concerning update regarding the forward's availability for Game 2 against the Los Angeles Lakers, Rockets reporter Vanessa Richardson shared footage of Durant working out in a gym.

In the video, Durant can be seen getting his shots up. Though it was without any defense or contact, he was getting into his spot and shooting his trademark mid-range shot and making it fall.

Kevin Durant getting shots up at practice. pic.twitter.com/wxGblWYFIF

— Vanessa Richardson (@SportsVanessa) April 20, 2026

The video was posted Monday evening, just one day before Game 2 of the first round NBA playoffs matchup.

Durant missed Game 1 due to a right knee contusion. He bumped knees with a teammate during Wednesday's practice, causing pain and tenderness. Rockets head coach Ime Udoka said Durant was facing discomfort while bending his knees. While the medical imaging showed no structural damage, his knees were too sore to play.

In his absence, the Rockets were handed a tough loss by the Lakers, who were also without their superstar guard Luka Doncic. Had it not been for Durant's injury, the Rockets would have fancied their chances of beating the Lakers instead.

More: What Kevin Durant missing Game 1 really means for Rockets-Lakers series and his future

Shams Charania not so convinced with Rockets optimism for Kevin Durant's return

During his latest media appearance, Shams Charania raised concerns whether Kevin Durant will be available for Game 2. Even though the Rockets are optimistic about Durant's recovery in time for Game 2, Charania is not so sure.

"Kevin Durant's status for Game 2 is up in the air," Charania said. "My understanding is Kevin Durant is dealing with a deep bruise in his right patellar tendon...The Rockets they're optimistic that Kevin Durant is gonna be able to return as soon as Game 2 but it remains to be seen."

Shams: "Kevin Durant's status for Game 2 is up in the air. My understanding is Kevin Durant is dealing with a deep bruise in his right patellar tendon...The Rockets they're optimistic that Kevin Durant is gonna be able to return as soon as Game 2 but it remains to be seen" pic.twitter.com/2aiuujWgaL

— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) April 20, 2026

Durant was a partial participant in Monday's practice. Ime Udoka has stated that two-time NBA champion's playing status will be taken just before the tip-off.