The Houston Rockets’ preseason is underway, but fans are still waiting for their first look at the team’s biggest offseason addition. Kevin Durant, the future Hall of Famer acquired in a major summer trade, did not play in the team’s preseason opener against the Atlanta Hawks. This left Rockets supporters eagerly anticipating his eventual debut in the team’s famous red and white uniform. Will he finally suit up?

Is Kevin Durant playing against the Jazz? The Rockets’ injury report

Kevin Durant’s debut is now officially set for the team’s second preseason contest against the Utah Jazz. KD himself confirmed his status for the game, marking his first appearance since joining the Houston Rockets. When asked about his participation, Durant provided a clear answer and insight into his approach for the exhibition game. “Yeah, I am (playing),” Durant stated. He immediately tempered expectations about his playing time, adding, “And I don’t know how long, though, because it’s preseason… Just get some good run up and down the floor… I want to get that conditioning back, so you know, just check the boxes a little bit.”

The Rockets are scheduled to face the Utah Jazz on Wednesday, October 8, providing the next opportunity to see the new lineup in action. Durant’s role is anticipated to be significant, especially with the team managing a major injury. The Rockets will miss Fred VanVleet, who is out for the season with a torn ACL.

Following VanVleet’s injury, ESPN reported that Durant is aware his responsibilities will expand. Even Power forward Dorian Finney-Smith is listed as out as he continues to manage a lingering ankle injury. He is considered unlikely to be ready for the start of the regular season. Meanwhile, forward Tari Eason is marked as questionable for Wednesday with an undisclosed issue, and center Steven Adams will be rested for the game, as per Danielle Lerner of the Houston Chronicle.

With these players sidelined, other roster members will see expanded roles. Young players like Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard are expected to step up. Veterans such as Jae’Sean Tate and Josh Okogie are also in line for increased playing time as Coach Udoka experiments with rotations during the preseason period.

Where to watch the Rockets vs the Jazz

The Rockets versus Jazz preseason game is scheduled for Wednesday, October 8, with a tip-off time of 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The game will be played at Toyota Center, Houston, Texas. For viewers looking to watch from home, the primary national broadcasting option is the NBA League Pass, the league’s official live streaming service.

Fans in the local television markets can also catch the game on their regional sports networks. Viewers in the Houston area can tune in on Space City Home Network (SCHN), the Rockets’ flagship broadcaster. Those in Utah can watch the game on KJZZ, the local station that carries Jazz games.

For anyone outside these local markets without a full NBA League Pass subscription, the League Pass remains the sole option for watching the game live on television or through digital devices.