Warriors' Kerr: Durant 'at least a couple weeks away' from return
Kevin Durant may be taking jump shots and running full-court sprints, but he likely isn't as close to returning as some might assume.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr revealed Saturday that the 6-foot-9 forward is still a couple weeks away from returning to Golden State's lineup.
"Well, I mean, (re-integrating Durant) is something we’ll consult the training staff on," Kerr told the San Jose Mercury News’ Anthony Slater. "I imagine we’ll ease him back by playing him shorter minutes to start so he can build up his rhythm and his conditioning, but that obviously has a domino effect on the entire rotation. When we get to that point, we’ll figure it out. It’s not something I’m giving a lot of thought to right now because he’s still at least a couple weeks away."
Durant hasn't played since Feb. 28 after suffering a sprained MCL and tibial bone bruise against the Washington Wizards. Reports surfaced earlier this week indicating the Warriors were hopeful the 28-year-old could return before the end of the regular season.
Golden State initially struggled following the injury - dropping five of its first seven contests without Durant - but has since won six straight games.
The eight-time All-Star is averaging 25.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 1.6 blocks, and 1.1 steals on 53.7 percent shooting during his first season in the Bay Area.