24 hours from his first game since the 2019 Western Conference playoffs, Brooklyn Nets head coach Steve Nash expects Kevin Durant to play and defend all five positions, per Alex Schiffer of The Athletic.

Coming during the coach's media scrum at the team's practice facility Saturday afternoon, the announcement is yet another indication of the confidence that the organization appears to have in the forward's recovery from his Achilles injury. Sustained in the NBA Finals against the Toronto Raptors over 18 months ago, the ailment is considered to be the most dangerous an NBA player can endure.

The tendon that is used to transmit power from the calf muscle to the heel and foot, the tearing of the Achilles often leaves players significantly hobbled compared to their athletic ability pre-injury. Unable to generate momentum on their vertical jump, or explosiveness as they cut to the basket, the injury has historically affected those who operate from the wing most severely; a dubious distinction for a player of Durant's profile.

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However, despite the concerns, reports over the summer seemed to indicate that Durant was progressing extraordinarily well in his rehab, and generated hopes that the Nets would get an approximation of the former-MVP at his peak. Nash's revelation that KD will be able to operate with minimal constraints is another reason for Brooklyn fans to be optimistic.

With rumors swirling around the team regarding a potential trade for James Harden, as well as controversy over Kyrie Irving's decision to boycott the media, the news regarding Durant is a welcome “on the court” development for the team. Should he regain the form that made him a perennial All-Star, it is likely that all other concerns for the franchise will fall by the wayside for Nash and the franchise.

As for now, the Nets and their fans will have to wait until Sunday night, to discover what Kevin Durant they will be getting.