Did the Rockets do Enough to Dethrone the OKC Thunder this Offseason?

The Oklahoma City Thunder, following their first franchise championship, have extended contracts with key players Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams. Despite being considered the league's best team entering the 2025-26 season, they face challenges in winning consecutive championships.

The Houston Rockets, who finished just behind the Thunder, significantly strengthened their roster by acquiring superstar scorer Kevin Durant and moving on from Jalen Green. Their additions also include Dorian Finney-Smith, Josh Okogie, and Clint Capela, while retaining Steven Adams, Fred VanVleet (extended), and Jabari Smith Jr. Analysts highlight the Rockets' enhanced size, defensive identity, and wing athleticism as specifically designed to counter the Thunder, now complemented by Durant's offensive firepower.

Other Western Conference rivals also improved: the Los Angeles Lakers added Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart, and the Los Angeles Clippers acquired Bradley Beal, John Collins, and Chris Paul.

Oddsmakers project the Rockets to win 54 games in the upcoming season, a slight increase from their previous 52 wins, setting the stage for a potential playoff challenge to dethrone the Thunder.