)
Kevin Durant is set to miss the fifth game of the series against the Lakers due to injury, making Houston's task of winning this game and cutting the series deficit to 3-2 significantly harder.
Durant entered the series already injured, sitting out the first game. He did play in the second, but only managed 13 points and couldn't prevent the Rockets' loss.
He was subsequently absent from both the third and fourth matchups, leaving Houston in a precarious position without him. The Lakers currently lead 3-1, having squandered their first opportunity to close out the series. LeBron James and his teammates will now have another chance to advance on their home court.
At 37, Durant is one of the 21st century's greatest players, but he's now at a point where any injury could signal the end of his illustrious career. According to Shams Charania, Durant is still bothered by his left ankle and isn't fit to play. Consequently, Ime Udoka's team will have to head to California without their star player, battling to extend the series.
VIDEO: Watch Nikola Jokic's incredible performance that forced a Game 6 against Minnesota
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)
&format=webp)
&format=webp)
&format=webp)
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)