MVP chatter heats up after Kevin Durant’s electrifying Houston Rockets debut against Utah Jazz | NBA News
Kevin Durant made a strong statement in his first game with the Houston Rockets. After missing his first three shots, the veteran star turned on the heat and didn’t miss again. Durant scored 20 points in 23 minutes to lead Houston to a 140-127 preseason win over the Utah Jazz. It was his first outing since being traded from the Phoenix Suns in July. The Rockets will hope that Durant’s arrival will take them to the next level after last season’s early playoff exit.
Kevin Durant feels right at home with the Houston Rockets
Kevin Durant showed no signs of discomfort in his new team. His shooting touch returned quickly after a cold start.After the game, Durant reflected on playing with the new side, the Houston Rockets. “I’ve felt at home since I got here three or four weeks ago, so it felt normal,” said Durant. “It felt like I’ve been here a while. The guys welcomed me pretty kindly, the coaching staff too, so it just felt natural. I haven’t felt any difference.”The Rockets aim to build on their strong 2024-25 season, in which they finished second in the Western Conference. In the game, Amen Thompson impressed with 19 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, while Alperen Sengun showed promise with 13 points and 13 assists. Even without Fred VanVleet, who is recovering from an ACL injury, Houston’s offense looked dangerous. Durant’s calm and confidence gave the team a clear lift.
Kenyon Martin backs Kevin Durant for MVP 2026
The excitement around Kevin Durant joining the Houston Rockets goes beyond just the team’s management and fans. The ever-positive Kenyon Martin opined on this union on Iman Shumpert’s All In show. When the topic of the 2026 MVP came up, he immediately backed Durant for the honor. “If people stop hating on him, I’m going Kevin Durant,” said Martin.
Notably, Durant hasn’t finished in the top five in MVP voting since the 2015-16 season. His years in Golden State, the Achilles injury, and a tough Phoenix stint kept him out of the race. However, Houston may be the change he needs. “I think Houston’s gonna do something, bruh. And he’s gonna drive that s*** dawg,” Martin added, with Iman agreeing.With Durant, Alperen Sengun, and Amen Thompson, the Rockets will have a strong belief that they can rise to the top again! Also Read: Houston Rockets’ Kevin Durant Turns Interview Into Flirt Fest With Gorgeous Reporter, Makes Fans Go Crazy
