Avoiding a clash with his former team? Kevin Durant will miss consecutive games against the Suns and Warriors due to attending to family matters.

On November 24th Beijing time, according to reporter Shams, Rockets star Kevin Durant will miss the upcoming two games due to family matters.

The Houston Rockets will face the Phoenix Suns on the road Tuesday and then travel to play the Golden State Warriors on Thursday, Beijing time.

At age 37, Durant is still maintaining an elite level this season. Since signing with the Rockets, the 15-time All-Star has played 14 games, averaging 36.1 minutes per game, contributing 24.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.0 steals, with shooting percentages of 48.5% from the field, 36.4% from three-point range, and 80.0% from the free-throw line.

Although Durant has long been praised for his strong professional attitude, he has traditionally led by example. Yahoo Sports reporter Kelly Iko noted that in this young Houston team, the future Hall of Famer has had to become a more vocal leader.

“When I identify an issue, I’m more willing to speak up now,” Durant said. “I consider myself very knowledgeable about the game, having been through many situations, so I feel more confident to voice concerns and try to help my teammates as much as possible. It’s just a natural progression—I’m becoming more comfortable in the locker room, and my teammates are more open to hearing my thoughts.”

According to Iko, Durant “has a lot of respect” for second-year guard Reid Shepard, who has been performing exceptionally well in recent weeks.

“Knowing who he is and the confidence he gives me feels really great,” said Shepard, the 2024 third overall draft pick.

With Durant sidelined, and both Fini Smith (recovering from offseason ankle surgery) and Tari Eason (healing from an abdominal strain) still out, the Rockets’ frontcourt will face a shortage of players. Veterans Tate and Jeff Green may see increased playing time in the short term, but Tate will need to be recalled from the G League.