The Houston Rockets continue their active offseason with another defensive addition.
The Rockets acquired Kevin Durant in a trade package that sent Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks to Phoenix.
Houston also retained key contributors through re-signings, including Steven Adams, Fred VanVleet, and Jabari Smith Jr. Additional depth came through acquisitions of Dorian Finney-Smith from the Lakers and reunion with Clint Capela.
And recently, the Rockets just signed guard Josh Okogie to a one-year, $3.1 million contract, further strengthening their perimeter defense.
The 26-year-old guard split last season between Phoenix and Charlotte, averaging 7.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 0.8 steals across 40 total games.
Free agent forward Josh Okogie has agreed to a one-year, $3.1 million deal with the Houston Rockets, sources tell ESPN. Okogie enters his 8th NBA season and gives the Rockets another active wing defender who has averaged 6.3 points over 416 games. pic.twitter.com/RazV3afZq1
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 22, 2025
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Okogie brings elite defensive production to Houston
Okogie averaged 1.2 steals per game and ranked fourth in steals per 36 minutes among players appearing in 40-plus games last season.
His ability to disrupt opposing offenses aligns with Houston’s defensive-minded approach. The Rockets finished among the league’s top defensive units last season, establishing their identity through perimeter pressure and interior protection.
Okogie’s addition reinforces that philosophy while providing depth behind established rotation players.
His defensive versatility allow switching across multiple positions, creating lineup flexibility for coach Ime Udoka.
Photo by David Jensen/Getty ImagesFan reactions split on roster construction approach
Rockets supporters expressed mixed feelings about another defensive-focused addition. “Best defense in the NBA,” one fan wrote, praising the organization’s continued emphasis on that end of the court.
“They’re so well equipped to win in this modern NBA,” another noted, highlighting how defensive identity can translate to championship success in today’s league environment.
They’re so well equipped to win in this modern NBA … multiple wing defenders, ability to play big or small, pick and roll game with FVV/Senguin, No. 1 option in KD … Game on
— Harrison Sanford (@HarrisonSanford) July 22, 2025
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However, questions emerged about offensive balance and scoring depth. “Why would they not try for another scorer,” one fan questioned, suggesting the roster lacks sufficient offensive firepower beyond Durant.
“How many defensive wings can one team board,” another wrote, expressing concern about positional redundancy rather than addressing other roster needs through free agency.
How many defensive wings can one team hoard
— Mavs Film Room 🐴🎥 (@MavsFilmRoom) July 22, 2025
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Durant’s offensive burden creates discussion points
The defensive-heavy approach places significant scoring responsibility on Kevin Durant’s shoulders. Some fans worry about the offensive load the future Hall of Famer must carry with limited complementary scorers.
“How much help does KD need,” one account posted a comment that was pretty typical of the feedback about Durant, who usually had a strong defense around him.
How much help does KD need
— valley boys anonymous (@bookerbuckets1) July 22, 2025
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“KD gonna have to average 30 again to carry this offense,” another fan wrote, highlighting concerns about Durant’s scoring burden at his advanced career stage.
How much defense do they NEED, kd gonna have to average 30 again to carry this offense
— fellowraptor🇨🇦 (@FruityLemons14) July 22, 2025
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The Rockets’ strategy appears centered on protecting Durant through elite defense while expecting him to provide primary offensive production.
Championship expectations rise with roster additions
Houston’s offseason moves position them as legitimate contenders for next season. Their combination of veteran leadership, defensive identity, and Durant’s scoring ability creates a compelling foundation for playoff success.
Amen Thompson’s continued development also could provide additional offensive upside alongside the established veteran core.
His growth trajectory will determine whether the Rockets can balance their defensive excellence with sufficient scoring punch for deep playoff runs.