The Houston Rockets will have one of the best lineups on the court at all times this season with the addition of Kevin Durant. Durant’s presence reshapes the Rockets from head to toe, influencing rotations, roles, strategies, and identity. Durant joins a core of rising stars in Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., and Alperen Şengün who now gain an elite level-one scorer beside them.
“Team sources said there are early indications Smith will likely return to the starting lineup, with Thompson — who originally replaced Smith last season after Smith broke his hand — slotting into Green’s vacated starting spot. The Rockets now possess ample length at four starting positions, amplifying the defensive tools Udoka now has at his disposal.”
With KD spacing the floor, cutting calmly, and creating effortless offense, these young players can develop in cleaner attacking roles without forcing plays. Durant’s gravity opens driving lanes and busts coverages, giving the Rockets’ upcoming talent prime opportunities to elevate their games.
While Durant offers elite offensive output, the Rockets don’t sacrifice defense. His length is an underrated tool as he uses it to disrupt passing lanes, clogging the paint, and forcing switches. Expect Houston’s scheme to encourage Durant picking up ball-handlers in space, playing stellar team defense, and allowing athletic wings to recover stunts or rolls.
He is the anchor who can contest without overhelping and still close out on shooters. The Rockets are now one of the better teams in the NBA with the addition of Durant.