'Optimism' growing Kevin Durant 'will return BEFORE All Star break'

Kevin Durant will resume on-court activities and will return to running this week, according to a new report.

The 34-year-old has been out of action since leaving the third quarter of the Brooklyn Nets'102-101 win vs. Miamiafter the Heat's Jimmy Butler fell into his knee after having his shot contested by Brooklyn's Ben Simmons.

Durant was diagnosed with an MCL knee sprain but Shams Charania of the Athletic has now reported that there is growing optimism Durant will be back in action for the Nets before the All-Star break, which starts February 17.

The Nets confirmed they would re-evaluate Durant in two weeks but it is a positive update for Jacque Vaughn and the rest of his coaching staff.