James Harden missed his second straight game on Friday due to left Achilles soreness. 

Doc Rivers believes Harden’s Achilles started bothering him before Monday’s game.

“It definitely was bothering him in that game,” Rivers said. “And … if this was a normal playoff game, James would be playing. But we’re just not going to do that right now. So we decided, especially now with guys, if they show something, they’re out.”

Harden could play on Saturday night at the Phoenix Suns though it could wait until Monday's game at the Denver Nuggets.

“Probably a bigger chance against Denver,” said Harden. “We’re hoping on this road trip. Usually, when you bring guys on the trip, that means you think he may play.”