The Houston Rockets are gearing up for the 2025-26 NBA season with high expectations following a transformative offseason, but injury woes are already casting a shadow over their ambitions. The team made headlines by acquiring 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant, a move that positions them as a serious contender in the Western Conference. However, they will start the season without key players, including Dorian Finney-Smith, who is recovering from offseason ankle surgery, and Fred VanVleet, who faces a lengthy absence due to a torn ACL.
Head Coach Ime Udoka confirmed that Finney-Smith is not expected to be ready for the season opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder on October 21. The loss of the versatile forward is a significant blow, especially as the Rockets look to establish chemistry between their new and returning players. VanVleet's injury is even more alarming, as he was anticipated to play a pivotal role in orchestrating the team's offense alongside Durant.
Despite these setbacks, Durant's arrival has generated a wave of optimism in Houston. He has expressed a strong sense of comfort with the Rockets and sees this chapter as potentially one of the final stops in his illustrious career. His veteran presence and work ethic are expected to rub off on the younger players, helping them elevate their game. The Rockets aim to implement a “bully ball” style that leverages their size and rebounding prowess, a strategy that could be bolstered with the addition of veteran center Clint Capela.
As the preseason kicks off, the Rockets will be tested in their ability to navigate these injuries while refining their new identity. The upcoming games will be critical for the team to find their rhythm and establish a solid foundation for what they hope will be a championship run. With the stakes high and the roster revamped, the Rockets are looking to turn these challenges into opportunities as they embark on a promising yet tumultuous season.