After missing the start of the season, Kevin Durant was finally rounding into form, enjoying what might have been a career night on December 18 against the Golden State Warriors. The numbers from that game are staggering; just 19 minutes, 10-of-13 shooting (including 5-of-6 from 3-point range) and 30 points.

And one badly sprained right ankle.

The injury was particularly worrisome considering it was on the same side where foot surgery kept Durant from playing until late November. While K.D. was immediately upbeat – even looking forward to playing the next night against the Lakers – he’d go on to miss the next six games.

But, according to reports from The Oklahoman’s Anthony Slater, Durant is back and might be ready to return to action as soon as Wednesday against the Phoenix Suns.

Durant participated in a practice session described as “intense” and leading reserve Kendrick Perkins to say, “It felt like a training camp practice. One of them days where we came in, punched in the clock and got after it.”

As for how Durant responded to the session, coach Scott Brooks said, “He was very lively and active on both ends of the floor. He’s progressing well. We’ll see how he feels tomorrow (Tuesday) and go from there.”

The Thunder would certainly welcome the return of Durant, having gone just 3-3 since he was injured. While Russell Westbrook has been phenomenal at times, Perry Jones – starting in K.D.’s place – has been somewhat inconsistent. The added responsibility of leading the team might be taking a toll on Westbrook, who sat out practice for “rest.” He’s not expected to miss any game action.

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