The Houston Rockets are preparing for the 2026-27 NBA season with a familiar core, coming off a tough 78-98 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on May 2. That defeat capped a recent five-game stretch where the team went 2-3, with results swinging from a 99-93 road win to that heavy home loss. As training camp approaches, we assess the projected starting lineup's potential to push the franchise deeper into the Western Conference title picture.
Point guard Fred VanVleet gets a B grade as he works back from a season-ending ACL injury. The 32-year-old veteran is expected to bring leadership, but his scoring dipped to 14.1 points per game last season. He'll need to prove he can hold off Marcus Smart and Reed Sheppard for the starting job. At shooting guard, Amen Thompson earns a B+. He agreed to a massive five-year, $208 million extension this month after averaging 18.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists over 79 games. Thompson is a defensive force but needs more consistent shooting from mid-range and deep to secure an All-Star spot.
Small forward Kevin Durant, now 37, remains the offensive cornerstone and receives an A grade. His scoring and efficiency from the perimeter are vital for Houston's system. Durant's ability to create his own shot and draw double-teams opens up the floor for his teammates. His veteran presence is invaluable for a team with championship aspirations, even as he handles the later stages of his legendary career.
Jabari Smith Jr. is projected to start at power forward. His development as a stretch-four who can defend multiple positions is key for Houston's defensive versatility. At center, Alperen Şengün holds down the paint. His post scoring, playmaking, and rebounding are central to the Rockets' offensive flow. The chemistry between Şengün and Smith in the frontcourt will be a major factor in the team's interior defense and rebounding efforts.
The immediate focus is on training camp and integrating returning players from injury. The recent form shows a team capable of winning, like the 99-93 victory over the Lakers on April 30, but also prone to offensive droughts as seen in the 78-98 loss. Consistency will be the target. The bench depth, featuring players like Smart and Sheppard, provides options. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming schedule on our schedule page. The Western Conference is always tough, and the Rockets will need their starters firing from opening night.
