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.