Rockets Announce Kevin Durant News on Saturday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Nov 29, 2025 6:01 PM ET

The Houston Rockets have won two straight games and look like true title contenders early in the 2025–26 season. The team has shown its depth recently by getting it done on the road without forward Kevin Durant, who missed his first two games of the season due to a personal matter.

In his first season with Houston, Durant has started strong following a blockbuster offseason trade that brought him over from the Phoenix Suns. The 37-year-old veteran has continued to operate as one of the league’s best scorers.

Durant has posted 24.6 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3.3 assists while shooting 48.5% from the field and 36.4% from 3-point range in his first 14 appearances.

Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7)Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

As the Rockets prepare to take on the Utah Jazz on Sunday, speculation grew over whether Durant’s absence would extend further. Houston has the depth to compete without him and would still be favored to beat Utah whether he plays or not, but fans are eager to see him back in the starting lineup.

Fortunately for the Rockets, Durant is back after they announced their latest injury report on Saturday. The team’s update did not include him, signaling he should be available to return on Sunday.

Durant’s addition to a Rockets squad that earned the second seed in last season's Western Conference playoffs has elevated Houston’s championship expectations. Even as he enters the final stages of his career, Durant brings unmatched experience and talent, proven across his 18-year NBA journey with five organizations.

He has 15 All-Star selections, four scoring titles and 11 All-NBA honors, showing he has long operated as one of the league’s brightest stars.

Just as important, Durant has consistently risen to the moment in the postseason, winning two NBA championships and proving he can handle the pressure of the biggest stage.

With Durant back in the lineup, the Rockets gain not only one of the league’s most accomplished scorers but also a veteran leader who knows how to deliver when it matters most. For a team already loaded with depth and ambition, his presence could be the final piece that pushes Houston toward a legitimate run at the NBA title.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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