Ime Udoka Shares a Crucial Update on Kevin Durant's Recovery
Ime Udoka has given a key update on Kevin Durant's injury situation, and it does not sound too promising for the Rockets ahead of Game 4. With Houston already down 3-0 against the Lakers, Durant's absence has become an even bigger talking point, especially with the team now one loss away from elimination.
The Rockets are doing everything they can to get him ready, and Durant himself is trying to push for a return, but as things stand, his chances of playing in Game 4 still appear slim. That leaves Houston in a tough spot, needing a win to keep the series alive while likely having to do it without their biggest star.
Ime Udoka says Kevin Durant is receiving around-the-clock treatment for his ankle. Udoka says last night during the game, Durant was receiving treatment which included running on an underwater treadmill.
— Vanessa Richardson (@SportsVanessa) April 25, 2026
Udoka in his latest update reported by Vanessa Richardson on X said, "Ime Udoka says Kevin Durant is receiving around-the-clock treatment for his ankle. Udoka says last night during the game, Durant was receiving treatment which included running on an underwater treadmill."
Is There Still Any Hope for the Houston Rockets?
With Houston down 3-0 to the Lakers and facing a win-or-go-home Game 4, Durant is trying to push through an ankle issue that already kept him out of Game 3. Ime Udoka said the veteran forward has made some progress, but the team is not ready to say he will be available. At this point, it sounds like they will give him every possible chance before making the final decision.
Durant has been getting treatment nonstop, and the swelling in his ankle has reportedly gone down. But the bigger question is whether he can actually move well enough to play in a high-pressure playoff game. That is the part Houston still needs to figure out.
Udoka also made it clear that there is a big difference between looking okay in a light workout and being ready for real game speed. Durant seemed close before Game 3, but once the intensity picked up, it was not enough.
That leaves the Rockets in a tough position. They blew a late lead in Game 3, lost in overtime, and now need a win just to keep the series alive. Durant has already dealt with a knee issue earlier in the series, then picked up the ankle injury in Game 2. So while Houston is hopeful, his Game 4 return still feels very uncertain.
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This story was originally published April 25, 2026 at 1:24 PM.