Rockets poised for title contention with Durant’s arrival despite third-place rank in Western Conference
The Houston Rockets are gearing up for a season that promises to rekindle memories of their glory days. For the first time since 2018-19, they are entering the campaign with aspirations of competing for an NBA championship. That season was notable for the Rockets as they reached the Western Conference Finals, coming tantalizingly close to the NBA Finals before a critical hamstring injury sidelined Chris Paul. The excitement surrounding the pairing of Paul and James Harden was palpable, yet the journey since then has been rocky.
A Season of Promise
Fast forward to today, the Rockets are riding a wave of optimism after finishing last season with the second-best record in the Western Conference and the fourth-best in the league overall at 52-30. Their playoff run saw them clash with the Golden State Warriors in a gripping first-round series that extended to seven games, showcasing their potential but ultimately ending in disappointment. This offseason, the Rockets made it clear they were not content with merely competing; they aimed to elevate their game further.
Durant’s Impact
The Rockets’ pursuit of improvement led them to acquire Kevin Durant, a proven scorer who can take over games. This move came as the Phoenix Suns sought a fresh start after their star-studded trio of Durant, Bradley Beal, and Devin Booker failed to deliver postseason success. Alongside Durant, Houston bolstered its roster with defensive stalwarts Dorian Finney-Smith and Clint Capela, the latter of whom significantly enhances their center rotation, making it arguably the deepest in the league.
A Balanced Roster
What sets the Rockets apart is their blend of youthful talent and seasoned experience. With a roster now filled with players who possess championship credentials, including Durant, Houston has positioned itself as a formidable force. The optimism surrounding Alperen Sengun, whose stock has risen significantly following his performances at Eurobasket, adds another layer of excitement. Additionally, Amen Thompson is widely regarded as one of the league’s most promising young players.
Power Rankings Perspective
Despite their significant upgrades, the Rockets currently rank third in the latest Western Conference power rankings, trailing the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Denver Nuggets. Analysts, including those from Sports Illustrated, recognize the Rockets’ successful offseason, noting that they managed to add Durant while only parting ways with Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks. While Brooks’ departure raises questions about defense and locker room dynamics, the Rockets had a surplus of defensive prowess and desperately needed an offensive spark, making this trade a calculated risk for general manager Rafael Stone and his team.
Future Considerations
Houston’s financial landscape presents its challenges as well. They recently secured a new deal with Fred VanVleet and extended Jabari Smith Jr. with a hefty $122 million contract. However, with Tari Eason and Durant set to hit free agency after this season, the Rockets will need to navigate these complexities carefully. Furthermore, the development of second-year guard Reed Sheppard, who was drafted third overall in 2024, will be closely monitored as he aims to validate his selection and contribute meaningfully to the team’s success.
As the Rockets prepare for the upcoming season, they are not just looking to make a mark; they are intent on reclaiming their status as serious championship contenders in the NBA landscape. With the right blend of talent, experience, and ambition, Houston is ready to ascend.
