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Kevin Durant doesn’t need to be “The Guy” every night for Rockets to succeed

Kevin Durant has maintained a 50-40-80 shooting split in every season since 2011-12, a level of consistency that has historically required him to attempt at least 17 shots per game in 18 of his last 19 seasons. His tenure with the Houston Rockets began with a 2025 offseason trade, but the team's offensive structure was disrupted when point guard Fred VanVleet suffered a major injury before training camp.

This absence forced both Durant and Alperen Sengun to assume greater playmaking duties, leading opponents to double or triple-team Durant upon his arrival at half-court. The resulting defensive pressure often left the Rockets' offense stagnant, as teammates struggled to convert the open four-on-three opportunities created by Durant's isolation.

Over his career with the Thunder, Warriors, Nets, and Suns, Durant has been a two-time champion, 18-time All-Star, and former MVP, yet the physical toll of carrying such a heavy offensive load is becoming increasingly significant as he nears the end of his career.

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