Houston's 2025-26 starting five is set with Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, and Jabari Smith Jr. as starters, with a fluid battle for the fifth spot among Reed Sheppard, Tari Eason, and Steven Adams. The mix of a star guard, a versatile frontcourt, and a defensive backbone creates a high ceiling and clear fantasy implications as Udoka tests lineups in the preseason.

Durant's gravity should lift Smith and Sengun for easier looks, while Smith’s return to the starting unit signals a continued two-way impact. The guard rotation around Thompson will determine late-game playmaking, with Sheppard and Eason offering value if extended minutes materialize. Openers vs. Atlanta in the preseason will begin the evaluation.

Dorian Finney-Smith’s arrival gives Houston a veteran perimeter defender and a trusted voice for Amen Thompson as he takes on more on-ball duties. The offseason included work with The Guard Whisperer to sharpen shot mechanics and mid-range confidence.

Thompson posted 14.1 ppg and earned all-defense honors last season, but his 3-point shooting lagged at 27.5%. With VanVleet sometimes out, he’ll handle more and need to prove range, aided by improved chemistry with Sengün and Smith and Udoka’s patient approach.

Houston makes a bold leap toward title contention by adding Kevin Durant, but Fred VanVleet's torn ACL threatens the outlook for 2025-26. Durant brings elite scoring and gravity, while Amen Thompson, Reed Sheppard, and Aaron Holiday must shoulder more playmaking as VanVleet recovers. A midseason move for Anfernee Simons is floated to provide offense without compromising defense, especially with Boston potentially compiling assets with Jayson Tatum out. VanVleet’s new deal complicates a Dec. 15 trade window, leaving Houston time to evaluate development and fit.

Beyond Houston, the Celtics’ cap dynamics and Tatum’s injury add intrigue to possible moves around Simons. Simons’ track record as a scorer and 3-point threat makes him an appealing plug, particularly on an expiring contract. The piece also alludes to other NBA news—Lively II’s rising profile, Kuminga’s contract drama, and Curry’s stance—highlighting how quick roster shifts ripple through fantasy value and betting angles across the league.