Thunder forward Kevin Durant expected to return in 1-2 weeks

Oklahoma City Thunder star Kevin Durant should return in "a week to two weeks," coach Scott Brooks told reporters on Wednesday.

Oklahoma City Thunder star Kevin Durant should return in "a week to two weeks," coach Scott Brooks told reporters on Wednesday.

Durant was evaluated on Wednesday, before the Thunder were set to host the Los Angeles Clippers. The defending NBA Most Valuable Player has missed 36 games with ankle and foot injuries. He last played Feb. 19 against the Memphis Grizzlies and underwent surgery three days later to replace a screw in his right foot. Durant initially broke the foot and had the screw inserted in October.

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In 27 games this season, Durant is averaging 25.4 points, 6.6 rebounds and 4.1 assists per game. His minutes have dropped to 33.8 per game from his career average of 38 as he worked through the injuries.

[daily_cut.nba]The Thunder (35-28) entered Wednesday eighth in the Western Conference. With 19 games remaining, including Wednesday's game against the Clippers, a return in one week for Durant would have him playing in the March 18 game against the Boston Celtics in Oklahoma City. In two weeks, the Thunder travel to San Antonio to play the Spurs on March 25.

Oklahoma City has faced a tough year with injuries. Star point guard Russell Westbrook has missed 15 games, most recently due to a facial fracture. The four-time All-Star is averaging 27.4 points, 8.3 assists and 7.1 rebounds per game, all career highs.

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- Mike Fiammetta