Kevin Durant was just the beginning: How the Houston Rockets became instant title contenders
A flurry of high-impact deals has reshaped Houston’s roster—and further strengthened one of the best teams in the Western Conference.
The Houston Rockets are making it crystal clear: they’re chasing a championship next season. After finishing second in the Western Conference last year with a 52-30 record—behind only the reigning champs, the Oklahoma City Thunder (68-14)—the franchise is reloading in a major way.
Despite a strong regular season, the Rockets were bounced in the first round of the playoffs by the Golden State Warriors in a hard-fought seven-game series. That early exit has only fueled their aggressive approach to free agency.
Kevin Durant joins a stacked Houston roster
The biggest headline-grabber? Kevin Durant. In a blockbuster trade that sent shockwaves through the NBA, the Rockets acquired the future Hall of Famer from the Phoenix Suns in exchange for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 overall pick in this year’s draft, and five second-round selections.
Durant, even at 35, remains one of the league’s most lethal scorers. He averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists across 62 games last season. His arrival immediately elevates Houston to serious contender status in the West.
Dorian Finney-Smith lands in Houston on 4-Year deal
Houston also added veteran forward Dorian Finney-Smith on a four-year, $53 million deal. The 3-and-D specialist averaged 8.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.4 assists over 63 games split between the Lakers and Nets last season.
Finney-Smith was a key target for the Rockets, and his acquisition was made possible by the outgoing trade that sent Brooks and Green to Phoenix in the Durant deal. His versatility and defensive prowess should provide balance to a lineup increasingly built around scoring firepower.
Capela returns to boost frontcourt depth
In another savvy move, the Rockets brought back big man Clint Capela on a three-year, $21.5 million contract. Capela, who previously spent six seasons in Houston, is expected to provide much-needed interior presence on both ends of the court, especially with Steven Adams recovering from injury.
Houston isn’t just focused on splashy signings—they’re doubling down on their core. The team recently inked key players to contract extensions, including:
- Fred VanVleet
- Jabari Smith Jr. – 5 years, $122 million
- Steven Adams
- Jeff Green
- Aaron Holiday
- Jae’Sean Tate
With a retooled roster and a mix of proven stars and rising talent, the Rockets are making a bold statement: they’re done rebuilding—their sights are now set on a championship banner.
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