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Kevin Durant, #35 of the Golden State Warriors, strained his right calf on May 8 during the third quarter of Game 5 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Houston Rockets and has not played in any of the team’s games since. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr said on June 4 that Durant has made progress but is not ready to play yet. Warriors owner Joe Lacob said on May 5 that Durant will return within this series.
A muscle strain is a tear that occurs when the muscle is forcibly stretched when contracting. Strained muscles heal on their own over time and treatment is for specific symptom relief. It’s safe to play with a strain, but the pain might decrease effectiveness.