James Harden to miss at least 10 days with hamstring strain

Harden left after just four minutes against the Knicks on Monday night

After missing two games earlier this month with a hamstring injury, Brooklyn Nets star James Harden returned to the lineup on Monday night. It proved to be a short-lived return, however, as he was limited to just four minutes in the Nets' win over the New York Knicks.

After handing out three assists and grabbing a rebound, Harden checked out of the game early in the first quarter due to continued tightness in his hamstring. He did not return, and on Tuesday was diagnosed with a hamstring strain. The team announced that he'll be out at least 10 days, and will be re-evaluated at that point.

Meanwhile, the Nets revealed good news about their other injured superstar. Kevin Durant is listed as probable for Wednesday's game against the New Orleans Pelicans. Durant also suffered a hamstring injury and hasn't played since Feb. 13.

While Durant's return is obviously welcome news in Brooklyn, Harden's absence will continue a troublesome trend. Since the Nets acquired Harden in a Jan. 13 trade from the Houston Rockets, Durant, Harden and Kyrie Irving have played together in a total of seven games as each of Brooklyn's stars has battled injury.

The good news for Brooklyn is that it's thrived regardless as it's generally been able to play two of the three stars at the same time. The Nets are off to an Eastern Conference-best 35-16 start despite the nagging injuries. 스포츠토토

Harden leapt into the MVP conversation as the Nets continued to win. He's excelled as Brooklyn's primary facilitator while averaging 25.4 points, 11 assists and 8.7 rebounds since joining the Nets. His hamstring injury marks a new test for Brooklyn.

But the Nets will have no motivation to rush Harden back. While they would surely like to maintain their status atop the Eastern Conference and secure home-court advantage in the postseason, having their stars healthy for the playoffs is a much higher priority.