With about nine games remaining the NBA regular season, it appears that there may be great news for the Golden State warriors. The former NBA MVP was hurt weeks ago during a game which caused serious concerns about the Warriors' chances of winning another title. However, it was also noted at that time that he would possibly be back in four weeks, meaning he could participate in the NBA playoffs. Now it looks like he could be back a bit sooner than that.

Durant to return before season's end?

According to the latest reports from the NBA, Kevin Durant looked good during recent practice sessions.

The star forward has reportedly "not experienced any setbacks to date and has progressed as well as could be expected." The Golden State All-Star forward will be evaluated in another 7-10 days to see if he can return to game action.

Kevin Durant has been out ever since suffering an MCL sprain and bone bruise on his left knee back on February 28th. The injury occurred during a game against the Washington Wizards when Warriors teammate Zaza Pachouli fell against Durant's leg causing KD to exit the game

If the evaluation is good in another week or so, it could mean KD is finally back on the court for the Warriors in the regular season. Speculation is that he could play in the final three-game stretch of the season for Golden State.

That could be huge as the Warriors are holding onto the No. 1 seed in the West by just a few games right now.

Warriors remaining schedule & chances

On Wednesday night, the Warriors were playing in an away matchup against the San Antonio Spurs. A win in that game would extend their lead in the West to over three games. However, there is still plenty of basketball to be played so having their team at full strength down the stretch could be huge.

If Durant were to return for the final three games of the NBA season, it would mean he would be available for home games against the New Orleans Pelicans, Utah Jazz, and Los Angeles Lakers. Of those three squads, just one is playoff-bound as of this report.

In terms of chances to win the NBA Finals, the Golden State Warriors are odds on favorite still at the Vegas Insider website. Golden State is listed with 5 to 9 odds to win it all, followed by the Cleveland Cavaliers at 13 to 5, and then the San Antonio Spurs at 10 to 1 odds.