Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant has suffered a setback in his recovery from a foot injury.

The reigning MVP returned to practice earlier this week after being forced to undergo surgery on his foot for the second time, but he sat out Thursday's session and doubts remain about when he will be available.

"Experiencing a little bit of soreness," Thunder coach Scott Brooks replied when asked about Durant's absence. "That's expected. We have some peaks and valleys, and we always have a cautious approach, so today he didn't do anything.

"I think when you go through rehab, we all know through the rehab process you're going to have some peaks and valleys, and you just have to adjust accordingly. That's why he was off today, and he's definitely not playing tomorrow. That's all part of the process with his rehab."

Durant was initially expected to return next week for the Thunder, who have 13 games remaining in the regular season as they continue their bid to clinch the eighth playoff spot in the Western Conference.