Kevin Durant Expected To Miss Upcoming Road Games Following Ankle Injury

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Kevin Durant is expected to miss the Phoenix Suns' upcoming away games due to an ankle injury. Mike Budenholzer confirmed that Durant will undergo an MRI to assess the damage. The injury occurred during a game against the Houston Rockets, where Durant twisted his left ankle after colliding with Jabari Smith Jr. This incident contributed to the Suns' 148-109 defeat, marking their third consecutive loss.

The Suns' recent loss has affected their playoff aspirations, placing them 11th in the Western Conference with a 35-40 record. Budenholzer anticipates Durant's absence for at least three games but awaits Monday's MRI results for a clearer prognosis. "We'll get an MRI on it on Monday. He'll stay back [on the road trip], and we'll assess," he stated.

The game against Houston was challenging for Phoenix, as they conceded 78 points in the first half alone. Jalen Green led the Rockets with 33 points, while Devin Booker was a standout for the Suns, scoring 28 points. Despite Booker's efforts, Budenholzer expressed disappointment over their defensive performance.

Budenholzer highlighted defensive issues during the game, noting significant lapses in both quarters. "We gave up 78 points at half-time," he remarked. "Just defensively, I think 32 and 46 in the first and second quarters, it's just not good enough." The team had recently enjoyed a four-game winning streak but now faces challenges in regaining that form.

The Suns are set to face tough competition on their road trip, including matches against the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks following their game against the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday. Budenholzer remains hopeful about his team's resilience despite recent setbacks.

"We do [have the requisite fight]. It's a group that's got fight," he said. Reflecting on Sunday's performance, he admitted it was subpar: "It just wasn't good enough." The team aims to improve and return to winning ways soon.