Durant returns in Game 2 vs. Lakers

The Houston Rockets welcomed back Kevin Durant in a crucial Game 2.

Durant started Tuesday against the Los Angeles Lakers after missing Houston's Game 1 loss due to a knee tendon bruise, sources told ESPN's Shams Charania.

The 37-year-old led the Rockets with 26 points per game during the regular season. They missed him badly in the series-opening matchup, shooting only 38% from the field.

Durant's return to the lineup means that fans in Los Angeles will watch a blockbuster matchup between Durant and LeBron James. The iconic duo last faced off in the playoffs during the 2018 NBA Finals.

Amen Thompson, Josh Okogie, Jabari Smith Jr., and Alperen Sengun started Game 2 alongside Durant.