Rockets offseason recap and early season preview: Can Rockets contend in the West?
Can Kevin Durant, Amen Thompson and others push Houston into the West's upper tier? We're looking back at the offseason and taking an early look at the 2026-27 season.
The Houston Rockets are generating significant buzz as they look to make a push for the Western Conference's upper tier. With key offseason acquisitions like Kevin Durant and Amen Thompson, fans are eager to see if this revamped roster can make a deep playoff run. The addition of Durant, in particular, is a game-changer, as he's a proven superstar with a history of leading teams to championship contention.
The Western Conference has long been considered the more competitive of the two conferences, with powerhouses like the Lakers, Warriors, and Nuggets consistently vying for top spots. For the Rockets to contend, they'll need to navigate this treacherous landscape and establish themselves as a legitimate threat. With a talented young core and savvy veteran leadership, Houston has the pieces in place to make a serious challenge.
As the 2026-27 season gets underway, all eyes will be on the Rockets' early-season performance and how quickly they can gel as a team. Key matchups against Western Conference foes like the Lakers, Clippers, and Nuggets will provide an early indication of Houston's prospects. Will Durant and Thompson lead the charge, or will other teams in the West assert their dominance? Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting season in Houston and the wider NBA landscape.
Originally reported by espn.com. TourNews adds analysis for sports & fitness readers.