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Fans in Phoenix will have to wait a bit longer for Kevin Durant’s debut in the Valley of the Sun.
After making his Suns debut during a four-game road trip, Durant was set to debut in front of his new home fans against the Thunder on March 8. Those plans were derailed when the two-time Finals MVP was a late scratch due to an apparent injury suffered during a pregame workout.
Just how late of a scratch was Durant? The team announced he was out just 18 minutes ahead of the game’s scheduled tip time.
What does this mean for Durant and the Suns? Here is what we know about his latest setback.
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What is Kevin Durant’s injury?
Ahead of tip-off on Thursday, March 8, the Suns announced that Durant was out with left ankle soreness.
Coming into the day, Durant was not listed on Phoenix’s official injury report. He apparently suffered the injury during a pregame workout in which he made a misstep while attempting a layup.
Kevin Durant took a fall while warming up for his first home game with the Suns π³
He got up after. pic.twitter.com/J8SGlVQahj
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According to Duane Rankin of the Arizona Republic, Durant exited the Footprint Center in a walking boot.
In three games with the Suns, Durant is averaging 26.7 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game. Phoenix is 3-0 with Durant in the lineup.
How long will Kevin Durant be out?
No timetable has been given for his ankle injury, but following his absence against Oklahoma City, Greg Moore of the Arizona Republic reportedΒ that “there is concern within the organization that Durant has a Grade 2 sprain,” which could keep him out for the remainder of the regular season.
More updates on Durant’s status will come as they are made available.
Here is Phoenix’s upcoming schedule:
| Date | Opponent | Time (ET) | National TV |
| March 11 | vs. Kings | 9 p.m. | β |
| March 13 | at Warriors | 10 p.m. | ESPN |
| March 14 | vs. Bucks | 10 p.m. | NBA TV |
| March 16 | vs. Magic | 10 p.m. | NBA TV |
| March 19 | at Thunder | 3:30 p.m. | β |
Kevin Durant career stats, highlights
- 27.3 points per game
- 7.1 rebounds per game
- 4.3 assists per game
- 1.1 steals per game
- 1.1 blocks per game
- 3.2 turnovers per game
- 49.9 percent field goal shooting
- 38.4 percent 3-point field goal shooting
- 88.6 percent free throw shooting
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