Kevin Durant ruled out as Rockets face Lakers in must-win Game 5
Kevin Durant will miss Game 5 against the Lakers due to a left ankle sprain and bone bruise, marking his third consecutive playoff absence as the Rockets face elimination down 3-1 in the series. Houston will rely on its young core lineup again, hoping to force a Game 6. Durant has not yet begun on-court activities and remains unlikely to return before Friday’s potential Game 6. The injury timing is especially tough for a Rockets team that has dealt with limited injury luck this season.
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