The Brooklyn Nets have been struggling to win recently due to injuries and other personal decisions within the star-studded roster. However, Kevin Durant is expected to play Thursday night in his first game since January 15.

NBA insider Shams Charania tweeted the news Wednesday afternoon.

The power forward missed the Nets' last 21 games due to an MCL sprain. Durant suffered the injury in the Nets' January 15 game against the New Orleans Pelicans. According to Sporting News, the injury occurred when teammate Bruce Brown “fell back into his left knee trying to defend a fast break situation.”

Durant's absence greatly hindered New York's their starting lineup. The team went 5-16 without KD, plunging their record to just above .500. The Nets sit in the 8th spot in the Eastern Conference with a record of 32-31.

The Nets' starting lineup has shifted a lot this season, with injuries, mandates, and trades forcing Steve Nash to come up with new combinations. Durant's presence is sure to make an impact on the court, and other teammates might be joining him.

New York City is close to ending the COVID-19 vaccine mandate for indoor locations but unfortunately, since Kyrie Irving is technically a worker, he's still not allowed to play in home games. Meanwhile, new trade acquisition Ben Simmons continues to prepare to make his Nets debut, as he is recovering from a back injury.