Mustafa Esad-Bozkurt Habername.com
10/15/25
The New Houston Rockets
After finishing last season as the Western Conference’s No. 2 seed, the Houston Rockets made a franchise-defining move, pulling off a blockbuster trade to acquire former MVP Kevin Durant, signaling their transition from rising contender to full-fledged championship threat. After a few years of building, they are now focused on being true contenders.
Kevin Durant’s arrival now adds championship-winning experience to the team. Winning the Finals MVP award back-to-back will truly add winning value. With their Center Alperen Sengun, who came off an All-Star season, is steadily improving, becoming a double-double threat and a focal point in the rotation. With a balanced mix of veteran leadership and new young talent, the Rockets are entering a new direction with ambition and experience. If their chemistry works out, and health plays a role, the Rockets have a real chance at turning their building phase into a championship run, proving their time has finally arrived