The Golden State Warriors are expecting Kevin Durant to return from his calf injury midway through the NBA Finals, according to Yahoo Sports' Chris Haynes. While some members of the Warriors organization are hoping Durant can return for Game 3 at Oracle Arena, the more likely option is Game 4.
Durant has been out since exiting Game 5 of the second-round series against the Houston Rockets. Golden State had been undefeated in the playoffs without Durant before Game 1 of the NBA Finals against the Toronto Raptors, but the two-time Finals MVP was sorely missed in Thursday's 118-109 loss.
The Raptors' aggressive defense made life difficult on the Warriors' normally explosive offensive attack, with Golden State only shooting 43.6% from the field and struggling to find a rhythm throughout, especially in half-court situations. Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 34 points, but Klay Thompson (21 points) and Draymond Green (10 points) were the only other players in double figures.
Durant's ability to score in isolation against a defense will come in handy, but if this timeline is correct and he doesn't return until Game 4, Golden State is going to have to find a way to win at least one of the next two games. The Warriors can overcome a 2-1 deficit with Durant returning, but getting in a 3-0 hole would likely be insurmountable.
Follow Us
Subscribe