After a disappointing playoff exit and an injury-plagued year for the Houston Rockets, attention has shifted to off-court issues surrounding Kevin Durant and his fit within the team.
Beyond injuries, off-court narratives also played a role in shaping the season.
Reports surfaced suggesting Durant may have used a burner account to criticize teammates, including Alperen Sengun and Jabari Smith Jr., creating a distraction that lingered throughout the year.
“My teammates know what it is,” Durant said during a media session in February. “We’ve been locked in the whole season.”
Durant also drew attention during the playoff series when he received treatment in the locker room during a key moment instead of sitting on the bench.
Head coach Ime Udoka defended that choice.
“He was back there getting treatment, getting the ice and doing things you can’t do on the bench,” Udoka said.
Despite the turbulence, Durant remains under contract on a two-year, $90 million deal with a player option, leaving his future in Houston still to be determined.
Kevin Durant Burner Question Was Significant Distraction Rockets Never Fully Resolved https://t.co/uSd4f76ysh
— RealGM (@RealGM) May 2, 2026
