2019 NBA Finals -- After successful surgery, Durant faces long road to recovery
By Ponciano Melo Jr.
PhilBoxing.com
Fri, 14 Jun 2019
OAKLAND -- As rumors swirled on the extent of the lower leg injury he sustained in the second quarter of Game 5 last Tuesday, Kevin Durant turned to Instagram to set the record straight.
"I did rupture my Achilles. Surgery was today and it was a success," the Golden State Warriors superstar announced and posted a photo of himself at a hospital bed in the Hoag Orthopedic Institute in New York where he is presently recuperating.
There is no definite timetable for the return of the two-time NBA champion and two-time NBA Finals MVP, but Dr. Alan Beyer, an orthopedic surgeon, told reporters that the entire process could take between eight to 12 months.
"My road to recovery starts now! I got my family and loved ones by my side and we truly appreciate all the messages and support people have sent our way. Like I said Monday, I'm hurting deeply but I'm OK. Basketball is my biggest love and I wanted to out there that night because that's what I do. I wanted to help my teammates on our quest for a three-peat," Durant added.
Kevin Durant loses the ball after Monday's injury.
Durant is helped out of the Arena after the injury.
Durant was already nursing a calf strain when he ruptured his Achilles as he attempted to blow by Toronto Raptors big man Serge Ibaka. After plating his feet for a rapid burst, Durant's right leg buckled under the strain and he immediately crumpled on the floor of the Scotiabank Arena.
Meanwhile, the 2019 NBA Finals resumes Friday morning (Philippine time) with Game 6 at the Oracle Arena in Oakland where the Warriors hope to force a Game 7 against the Raptors, who are eyeing their first-ever NBA title.
Game 7, if necessary, is Monday morning at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Canada.
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