Rockets GM Discusses Kevin Durant's Fit With Young Core

Houston Rockets general manager Rafael Stone says Kevin Durant appears to enjoy playing alongside the franchise’s young core. The Rockets’ prospects include Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr. and Reed Sheppard, with Sengun and Thompson viewed as having All-Star potential for 2027. Durant, 38, remains Houston’s leading player despite his age, averaging 26.0 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.8 assists last season and earning All-NBA Second Team honors. Stone said Durant isn’t “chipper,” but has seemed to value the energy around him. Houston went 52-30 last year and lost in the first round, missing Durant for much of the series vs. the Lakers.