Rockets’ New Starting Lineup for 2025-2026 Taking Shape
Following a major roster overhaul, the Rockets’ starting five is set to undergo significant changes. On Sunday afternoon, Houston traded former No. 2 pick Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and draft assets to acquire 36-year-old superstar Kevin Durant—marking the franchise’s largest trade since dealing James Harden to Brooklyn.
Green and Brooks were consistent starters throughout their Rockets careers, meaning even with Durant’s arrival, the team still has a vacancy in the starting five. While there are multiple possible lineups with Durant now on board, it seems Houston already has a starting five in mind.
Backcourt:
Rising star Amen Thompson is expected to be a starter, having joined the lineup midway through his sophomore season. His explosive athleticism makes him an ideal defensive partner for Durant, while offensively, he can benefit from Durant’s gravity with his strong cutting and finishing ability in transition. As Thompson continues to develop as a playmaker, he’ll likely share point guard duties with Fred VanVleet.
VanVleet led the team with 5.6 assists per game last season and has been a pivotal figure in helping the Rockets rise from the bottom of the Western Conference. He’s thrived playing alongside both current stars and past All-Stars like Kawhi Leonard and Pascal Siakam. While second-year player Reed Sheppard is expected to have a larger role, VanVleet and Thompson are likely to remain the starting backcourt.
Frontcourt:
Kevin Durant is a guaranteed starter, as he has come off the bench only three times in his career. His elite scoring ability will be crucial to leading the Rockets’ young squad. All-Star center Alperen Sengun will continue to anchor the five spot.
The real question is who will secure the second forward position, with Tari Eason and Jabari Smith Jr. both competing for the spot. According to Kelly Iko of The Athletic, Smith is set to reclaim his starting role next season. After breaking his hand in January, Smith was replaced by Thompson in the starting lineup, but now both are expected to start alongside each other.
Smith, with a career 34% shooting from beyond the arc, is slightly behind Eason’s 34.5% but takes more difficult and higher-volume shots. His ability to stretch the floor next to Durant could be key in providing much-needed spacing for the Rockets.
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