NBA Player News

Due to a right knee contusion, Durant did not play in Saturday’s Game 1 loss to the Lakers. The veteran forward’s ability to participate in half of Monday’s session is not a good sign, even with Udoka saying that Durant will be a game-time decision for Tuesday’s Game 2. Reed Sheppard moved into the starting lineup in the series opener and struggled, shooting 6-of-20 from the field in 36 minutes of action. If Durant remains out, they’ll need more production from Sheppard and Alperen Şengün to avoid falling into a 0-2 hole.

Walter gets the start in Game 3, replacing Jamal Shead, who had filled in for the injured Immanuel Quickley. Walter is averaging 10.5 points in 28.0 minutes per game in the playoffs.

Bryant’s return from a six-game absence will give the Cavaliers another depth option in the frontcourt. The veteran center averaged 6.2 points and 3.4 rebounds per game during the regular season.

Neither Shannon nor Clark has seen the court yet through two games against the Nuggets. Their absences on Thursday shouldn’t have more than a minimal impact on Minnesota’s depth.

LaRavia’s absence from the injury report indicates that he’ll be available to take the floor for the Lakers on Friday. He’s come off the bench in each of the first two games against the Rockets in this series, posting six total points on 1-of-5 shooting from the field. He’ll likely play a similar role as a reserve in Game 3.

Quickley’s 2025-26 playoff debut remains on hold, as the Raptors look to avoid falling behind three games on Thursday. Jamal Shead has filled in as Quickley’s replacement in the starting unit over the first two games against Cleveland; he could remain there in Game 3.

Reaves’ upgrade on the injury report to questionable is an encouraging sign, signaling a potential return to the floor. He hasn’t appeared in a game since April 2, when the Lakers lost to the Thunder. The Lakers have gotten big production from others in Reaves’ absence, specifically from Luke Kennard, who is averaging 25 points through two playoff games. Should Reaves return in Game 3, it’ll likely be as a starter.

After previously being downgraded from probable to questionable, Gordon is now ruled out of Thursday’s contest. Without him, the Nuggets lose arguably their best defender and one of their more versatile offensive weapons as they look to rebound from a Game 3 loss. Bruce Brown could be a player who sees more minutes in Gordon’s absence.

Durant, who missed Game 1 with a tendon bruise in his right knee, is now dealing with a sprained left ankle. With the Rockets in a 0-2 hole, they can ill afford to be without their best offensive player in Game 3. Reed Sheppard would return to the starting lineup if Durant can’t play.

Embiid being listed as doubtful, rather than the 76ers immediately ruling him out, is a step in the right direction. However, he’s closer to not being available on Friday than being able to play. The 76ers will continue to rely on Adem Bona and Andre Drummond until the former league MVP is healthy enough to play.

LaRavia’s injury should be monitored, but it doesn’t sound very serious. If he’s forced to miss Game 3 at Houston, Rui Hachimura and Jarred Vanderbilt could see increased run.