TITLE: Southwest Roundup: Durant’s Status in Question, Rockets Seek More From Sengun, Harper Ready for Spurs, Grizzlies Weigh Morant Decision, Pelicans Eye Upgrades
SLUG: southwest-roundup-durant-rockets-sengun-harper-grizzlies-morant-pelicans-upgrades
CONTENT:
Kevin Durant missed Houston’s Game 1 loss to the Lakers with a right knee contusion, and observers who watched the 37-year-old forward work out a few hours before Saturday’s tipoff said he moved gingerly and appeared to be in considerable pain. His availability for Tuesday’s Game 2 remains uncertain.
Regardless of Durant’s status, the Rockets are looking for sharper play from Alperen Şengün. The All-Star center posted 19 points, eight rebounds and six assists in Game 1 but went just 6-for-19 from the floor and committed several costly miscues. “I missed a lot of shots … it happens,” Şengün said. “I’m going to bounce back next game and come stronger.” Second-year guard Reed Sheppard, who scored 17 points on 6-of-20 shooting, is also being counted on for a boost in Game 2.
Spurs
San Antonio guard Dylan Harper jammed his left thumb in last Sunday’s regular-season finale, yet the second overall pick in 2025 expects no limitations as the playoffs begin. Harper is off the injury report and fully practiced three times this week. “The wrap shouldn’t affect me,” he said at shootaround. “It’s more of a mind game, and I’m not feeding into that.”
Grizzlies
Memphis faces a pivotal offseason that includes deciding whether to keep or trade Ja Morant, drafting the best talent available and accumulating future assets, according to team beat coverage.
Pelicans
Head of basketball operations Joe Dumars voiced optimism about New Orleans’ direction during his exit interview, but a frustrated fan base is looking for tangible progress. Dumars must reshape the roster and hire a new head coach ahead of the 2026-27 campaign. “Between the age of our roster and the contracts, it gives us flexibility,” he said. “If there is something you need to do going forward, you’re in a pretty position to improve your team.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
