The Houston Rockets experienced a surprise breakout last season when they won 52 games, and finished second in the Western Conference. This offseason, the Rockets are now officially going for it after swinging a trade for Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns.
Despite entering his age-37 season, Durant is still a premier talent in the NBA. Last season, Durant averaged 26.6 points per game on 53 percent shooting from the floor, and 43 percent from three-point range. He was also named an All-Star for the fifteenth time for his efforts last season.
Durant ranked amongst the NBA’s best talents ahead of 2025-26 season
Now with the Rockets, ESPN has ranked Durant as the ninth-best player in the NBA ahead of the 2025-26 season.
“The Rockets entered last postseason pondering whether they needed to acquire a go-to offensive engine and received an answer resoundingly by way of a first-round exit,” ESPN’s Michael C. Wright said. “Even as he's about to turn 37, Durant remains an efficient and elite scorer who brings championship experience and IQ to go with a relentless work ethic, which is sure to rub off on Houston's relatively young roster.”
The Rockets will aim to take another step towards contention next season after climbing out of their rebuild last year. With Durant now in the fold, the Rockets are equipped for a deep playoff run, even with a younger roster around him.