The NBA has experienced major shifts throughout the year, especially after the trade deadline when stars like Luka Doncic, De’Aaron Fox, and Jimmy Butler moved to new squads. The offseason further strengthened the Western Conference, with the Los Angeles Clippers adding valuable players and the Houston Rockets securing Kevin Durant. This change has sparked considerable interest around Kevin Durant fitting with Rockets organizations moving forward.
All Western teams aim to challenge the reigning NBA champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, who return with nearly the same roster that reached the 2025 NBA Finals. Among the frontrunners to prevent a Thunder repeat, the Houston Rockets stand out as a serious threat.
Houston Rockets’ Roster for the 2025-26 Season
The Rockets’ headline offseason acquisition is Kevin Durant, one of the league’s all-time great scorers, expected to become the team’s primary offensive weapon. Supporting Durant as a reliable secondary option will be Alperen Sengun, who earned his first All-Star nod in his fourth season. The young Amen Thompson also draws attention for his high ceiling, with hopes he develops a more effective jump shot to unlock his full potential. Despite the youth around him, focus remains firmly on Durant’s impact.
Former LA Clippers guard Patrick Beverley spoke about how Durant’s arrival meshes with Houston’s mix of veterans and young talent.
[Kevin Durant] came there because he wanted to mix that youth with some veteran presence. But at the same time, KD give yo *** 25 [points] any game. I don’t think the team has to adjust to KD, and KD has to adjust to the team. He plays the right way,
Beverley shared.
Beverley praised not only Durant but also the fitting role the Rockets’ lineup creates, enabling Durant to receive open shots and opportunities.
I think he’ll get a ton of open shots. I think a lot of people don’t understand the offensive rebounding that Houston has,
Beverley added.
The Rockets’ retention of Steven Adams and the return of former starting center Clint Capela bolster their rebounding and inside presence. According to reports, Capela could play a “significant role” during the season’s second half, especially as the team manages back-to-back games and might limit Adams’ minutes.
If consistent contributions come from players like Dorian Finney-Smith, Reed Sheppard, and Jabari Smith Jr., Houston’s lineup will become a formidable challenge for any opponent come playoff time.
What This Means for Houston and the Western Conference
With Kevin Durant fitting with Rockets ambitions, the team positions itself as a top contender to disrupt Oklahoma City Thunder’s dominance. The blend of experienced scorers, rising stars, and defensive anchors offers a balanced roster capable of sustained success. Durant’s ability to seamlessly integrate with this group without demanding a complete system overhaul enhances Houston’s prospects.
As the 2025-26 season unfolds, the Rockets’ chemistry and durability will be factors to watch closely. Their potential to upset the reigning champions and advance deep into the postseason depends on how well these pieces coalesce and maintain health. For now, Houston remains one of the most intriguing teams to follow in the Western Conference’s increasingly competitive environment.