NBA Playoffs 2017: Warriors rule out Kevin Durant for Game 2 against Blazers
The Warriors are playing it safe with Durant, who suffered a left calf strain in Game 1
Kevin Durant's 32-point, 10-rebound performance in Game 1 of the playoff series against the Trail Blazers was a huge reason why the Warriors coasted to an easy win. But he didn't make it out of the game completely unscathed, as he suffered a left calf strain.
Durant's status headed into the evening was officially listed as questionable, but coach Steve Kerr confirmed the news of the Warriors plan to rest Durant. This will give him a full five days between Game 1, which took place on Sunday, and Game 3, which will be played on Saturday in Portland.
Matt Barnes (R ankle/foot sprain), Kevin Durant (L calf strain) & Shaun Livingston (R index finger sprain & hand contusion) are out tonight.
— Warriors PR (@WarriorsPR) April 20, 2017
The Warriors are playing it safe when it comes to injuries, not only with Durant but also with Shaun Livingston and Matt Barnes, who will both also miss Game 2.
On the decision to sit Durant, Kerr simply said playing him was "not worth it." The extra time off the court to rest the calf is clearly of utmost importance.
With a 1-0 series lead, the Warriors will be shorthanded in Oakland. A win in Game 2 would be a steal with the players they're missing. But it leaves the door open for the Blazers to answer on the road against a wounded Warriors team.
















