Overview

• Head coach Ime Udoka confirmed Kevin Durant is available for all four preseason games, starting with the opener against the Hawks.
• Houston’s probable preseason starting five features Reed Sheppard, Amen Thompson, Kevin Durant, Jabari Smith Jr. and Alperen Sengun.
• Fred VanVleet tore his ACL during an offseason workout and will miss the season, leaving the Rockets without their veteran point guard.
• Alperen Sengun said Durant will simplify his offensive burden and believes the pairing will elevate the team’s attack.
• ESPN’s Bobby Marks says first‑apron limits and trade‑eligibility timing likely delay outside help until mid‑December, while Durant has said he expects to sign an extension with Houston with timing still unclear.