The Houston Rockets were on the wrong end of an NBA Playoff stunner in the first round. They weren’t the higher seed in their lone series, but the Los Angeles Lakers‘ circumstances suggested the Rockets should’ve won with ease.
Instead, they dropped out with a 4-2 loss.
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 21: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers controls the ball against Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets during the first half of Game Two of the NBA Western Conference First Round Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena on April 21, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
As with all upsets, many questioned whether the Rockets would make major changes again over the 2026 offseason. The superstar Kevin Durant could be a trade candidate. The head coach, Ime Udoka, could be on his way out.
Ultimately, both seem to have enough support in Houston to at least give it another go.
What’s The Latest On Kevin Durant’s Standing With The Rockets?
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 21: Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets walks down court against the Los Angeles Lakers during the second half of Game Two of the NBA Western Conference First Round Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena on April 21, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne and Tim McMahon penned a detailed piece about the rise and fall of the 2025-2026 Rockets.
One of the most important tidbits surrounds the future of Durant and Udoka.
“Despite the loss, multiple high-level team sources still believe their young core can contend for the next decade. Those same sources said Udoka will remain an essential part of the team’s future. Durant too.”
The Rockets don’t have to stay tied to Durant or Udoka for the long haul, but they seem to be interested in sticking it out for at least another round.
In 2026-2027, Durant is slated to make $43.9 million guaranteed. He has a player option for the 2027-2028 season.
Durant played well for Houston, appearing in 78 games last year. He averaged 26.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists, while shoting 41.3% from three.
GettyHOUSTON, TEXAS – MARCH 18: Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets reacts during the first quarter of the game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center on March 18, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
Unfortunately, he didn’t get to bring his value to the playoffs, where the Rockets needed him the most. Due to two different setbacks, the 37-year-old played in just one of six games. His contribution to the playoff failure was out of his hands.
As for Udoka, his safety might come as more of a surprise. Typically, coaches with back-to-back postseasons of failing to reach expectations would lead to a change, but the Rockets might give him a third swing at the plate.