Nets' Kevin Durant out through All-Star break with hamstring injury

Earlier this week, Brooklyn Nets coach Steve Nash suggested that superstar Kevin Durant would return from the strained left hamstring that's kept him sidelined since Feb. 13 ahead of next week's All-Star break. 

That won't be the case. 

"After a routine follow-up MRI on his left hamstring, it was determined that Brooklyn Nets forward Kevin Durant will require an additional recovery period that will result in him remaining out through the NBA All-Star break," the Nets said in a shared statement. "The latest images provided a clearer picture of the hamstring and while we are confident that Durant will return at full strength, this extra recovery time will allow him to perform at the level at which he has been playing this season once he returns. Durant will continue to undergo rehabilitation and will be re-assessed following the break." 

Durant was averaging 29.0 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game while shooting 52.4% from the field and 43.4% from three-point range before the injury. The Nets, meanwhile, have won eight straight contests and sit at 22-12 heading into Saturday's matchup against the Dallas Mavericks.