Houston signals a shift toward depth and flexibility as Capela signs on behind Sengun and Adams. Sengun’s move to power forward last season fueled a successful double-big look with Adams, and Capela’s arrival gives Houston a veteran rebounder and rim protector to backstop the lineup. The plan hinges on Sengun’s continued floor-spacing improvement and Udoka’s emphasis on defense and physicality, with Adams’ workload likely to be managed down the stretch.

Capela’s return reopens a dynamic center rotation that could be even more versatile than the previous season, potentially letting Houston deploy two bigs at once while preserving rest for the playoff push. The duo’s presence also elevates the Rockets’ rebounding and interior defense while offering insurance against injuries, setting the stage for a playoff-contending, strategically flexible squad.

EuroBasket 2025 features Doncic, Markkanen, Jokic and Sengun delivering premium fantasy signals for next season and a stern test for Oklahoma City. Doncic’s 34 PPG on high efficiency, Jokic’s 66% FG clip, Markkanen’s 24.7 PPG, and Sengun’s heavy minutes on 59% FG map a high-usage, multi-cat floor. Durant’s Rockets arc with Jabari Smith and Amen Thompson sweetens the West, leaving OKC chasing Nuggets and Lakers in a crowded landscape.

Houston rockets sit No. 2 in USA TODAY’s early 2025-26 power rankings after a bold offseason: Kevin Durant joins Amen Thompson, Alperen Sengun and Jabari Smith Jr. to form a high-upside core, with Dorian Finney-Smith providing 3-and-D versatility. Ime Udoka mans the helm as the roster grows into title contention. Rockets fans eye a deep playoff run as training camp opens in late September, while the Thunder loom at No. 1.

Beyond Houston, the piece notes Boston’s and Cleveland’s questions after major offseason changes, Indiana’s rise, and Memphis’ shakeups, setting a wide-open West and a pivotal year for fantasy managers. Durant’s arrival could juice Rockets’ totals; internal development from the young trio and Finney-Smith’s defense will be key, while health and depth shape the rest of the league’s race for titles.

Kevin Durant joins Houston as the keystone piece, but not the entire engine. Durant slots in as a go-to halfcourt scorer, taking pressure off a rising core of Amen Thompson, Alperen Sengun, Jabari Smith Jr., and Reed Sheppard. The Rockets’ depth should let him play smarter and save wear for the playoffs, lifting the fantasy ceiling around the rotation.

Ralph Sampson believes the setup could extend Durant’s prime by reducing heavy lifting and letting the younger core thrive. For fantasy managers, the takeaway is clear: Durant remains elite, the supporting cast develops, and a more balanced attack boosts multiple Rockets for fantasy value down the line.