The Houston Rockets will face Kevin Durant and the Phoenix Suns in NBA Cup group play on Nov. 25 at Toyota Center, marking their first meeting since the blockbuster 2025 trade that sent Durant to Houston. The Rockets enter the matchup with a 2W-0D-3L record in their last five games (LWWLL), including a 78-98 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on May 2, 2026.
What’s at stake for the Rockets?
This NBA Cup clash carries extra weight as the Rockets look to prove themselves against a Suns team they dominated in the 2025-26 regular season, sweeping all four matchups. With Durant now in Houston, the Rockets aim to build on their recent form while testing their chemistry against a familiar foe. The game will be part of the West Group A schedule, which also includes the Denver Nuggets, Dallas Mavericks, and Utah Jazz.
Key players to watch
Kevin Durant will be the focal point for Houston, facing his former team for the first time since the trade. The Suns, meanwhile, will rely on Jalen Green, acquired in the Durant deal, to lead their offense. Dillon Brooks and rookie Khaman Maluach, also part of the trade, will play key roles for Phoenix. The Rockets’ recent struggles against elite competition, including their May 2 loss to the Lakers, will be a test for their young core.
What’s next for the Rockets?
After the Suns game, the Rockets will continue their NBA Cup group play with matchups against the Nuggets, Jazz, and Mavericks. The tournament’s championship game is set for Dec. 11 at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. With Durant now in the lineup, the Rockets hope to make a deep run in the competition while also using it as a springboard for the regular season.
