Overview

• Durant scored 20 points in 23 minutes on 7-of-10 shooting in a 140-127 preseason win over the Jazz, saying the game "felt normal" in his first action for Houston.
• Early chemistry stood out as Alperen Şengün tallied 13 points and 13 assists and Amen Thompson added 19 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists, with both frequently linking actions with Durant.
• Multiple outlets reported optimism that Durant and the Rockets could finalize a two-year extension before the Oct. 21 opener, following his own comments that he expects to sign.
• With VanVleet out for the season, Houston is testing internal solutions at guard such as Thompson and Reed Sheppard, while Durant said a potential Russell Westbrook reunion "would be dope" but is not his decision.
• The Rockets open at Oklahoma City on Oct. 21 for the Thunder’s ring night, and Durant described mixed feelings about the spotlight on his return to his former team.