The Houston Rockets just shifted from future contenders to full-on title threats. After pulling off a blockbuster deal to acquire Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns, the Rockets now boast one of the most balanced and dangerous starting lineups in the Western Conference. Houston gave up Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 picks in the 2025 NBA Draft, and five second-rounders to make it happen.
According to The Athletics. Sam Amick and Kelly Iko, the Rockets are expected to start Fred VanVleet, Amen Thompson, Kevin Durant, Jabari Smith Jr., and Alperen Sengun. Team sources say Smith will likely reclaim his power forward role after returning from injury, while Thompson fills Green’s vacated shooting guard spot. The result is a starting unit with elite size at four positions and the kind of defensive versatility head coach Ime Udoka can exploit in a deep playoff run.
The Houston Rockets are expected to start Fred VanVleet, Amen Thompson, Kevin Durant, Jabari Smith Jr., and Alperen Şengün, per @sam_amick & @KellyIko
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 22, 2025
“Team sources said there are early indications Smith will likely return to the starting lineup, with Thompson — who originally… pic.twitter.com/X2RqJOqRZW
The Rockets finished last season with a 52-30 record and fell in a tightly contested first-round series against the Golden State Warriors. With Durant now in the mix, they gain a late-game close and proven winner who instantly raises the team’s championship ceiling.
Breaking Down The Houston Rockets’ New Starting Lineup
Fred VanVleet returns as the primary floor general. Though his efficiency dipped 37.8% FG to 34.5% 3PT, he brought playoff composure and leadership to a young roster. The Rockets hold a $44.8 million option on his deal and are likely to keep him via the option or a longer-term restructure.
Amen Thomas slides into the starting shooting guard role, bringing elite athleticism, on-ball defense, and 55.7% shooting from the field. With Durant attracting attention, Thompson’s slashing game could open up even more.
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Durant joins at small forward and remains one of the league’s most efficient scorers. His presence transforms Houston’s offensive identity, giving them a reliable option in crunch time, a missing piece.
Jabari Smith Jr. stretches the floor at power forward, while Alperen Sengun anchors the post with his playmaking and strong touch. With a loaded bench behind them, the Rockets now look like a legitimate force in the West.
