Atlanta Hawks guard Vit Krejci (27) passes against Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart) The Houston Rockets are likely to have Kevin Durant back in the lineup on Wednesday night when they face the Boston Celtics at Toyota Center. The veteran forward missed the previous game, but his status has improved quickly.His return matters for a matchup between two teams currently on winning streaks. Houston is trying to strengthen its position in the Western Conference standings, and having its leading scorer available could make a difference against one of the league’s top teams.
Kevin Durant injury status for February 4 vs Celtics
Kevin Durant is listed as probable on the NBA’s official injury report for February 4 due to a left ankle sprain. Players with this tag usually play unless something changes close to tip-off.Head coach Ime Udoka said the injury is mild and called Durant’s absence earlier this week precautionary. Medical staff tracked his mobility and pain level during practice and shootaround before clearing him to return.
How the injury happened
Kevin Durant injured his left ankle in the third quarter of Houston’s 118-114 win over the Indiana Pacers on February 2. He stepped on an opponent’s foot while driving to the basket. Although he stayed in briefly, he was limping.The coaching staff decided to sit him for the rest of the game and hold him out the following night to avoid making the injury worse. Houston has taken a careful approach with the 37-year-old this season, limiting his workload in back-to-back situations and addressing minor injuries early to keep him healthy for the playoff race.
What his return means for Rockets vs Celtics
Houston enters the game with a 31-17 record, placing the team fourth in the Western Conference and one win behind Denver for third. The Rockets have won three straight games, while Boston is also on a three-game winning streak.Durant has been Houston’s main scoring option, averaging about 28-30 points per game while shooting over 50 percent from the field. He remains the team’s go-to player late in games and gives Houston another shot creator against a strong Boston defense.
Fantasy and betting impact
Kevin Durant’s probable status makes him a safe choice for fantasy lineups. However, the Rockets could manage his minutes slightly as a precaution, especially with a game against Charlotte scheduled for the next night.If he plays, he is expected to handle a large share of the half-court offense, take more three-point shots against Boston’s switching defense, and remain heavily involved in key possessions. His minutes could still be monitored depending on how the game unfolds.Betting lines have already shifted following the update, with Houston’s implied win probability increasing after Durant was upgraded.
Will Kevin Durant play tonight?
Kevin Durant is expected to play against the Celtics. There are no signs of a setback, and the team appears comfortable with his recovery. Houston is continuing to manage his workload, but the expectation is that Durant will be on the court for a game that could affect the standings as the season moves forward.