In his first season with the Houston Rockets, Kevin Durant has been playing at a remarkably high level. At 37 years old, he’s averaging 25.3 points while shooting over 50% from the floor and 43% from three-point range. That’s the kind of longevity which has been matched by very few players in the grand history of the NBA.
Durant and LeBron James are two of the only wings that can claim this kind of output at such an advanced age, and even more special is the fact that it’s being done in a league that’s faster and more physically taxing than ever before. A handful of the all-time greats have achieved this degree of longevity, but the circumstances under which Durant and James have done it just makes it that much more impressive.
What makes Durant’s production even more valuable is the context of where Houston is as a franchise. This is a team with legitimate championship aspirations, and Durant has become the stabilizing force that keeps everything from drifting off course. Whenever possessions break down or momentum starts to swing, Houston knows exactly where the ball needs to go.
Durant’s presence has reshaped the roles around him in a meaningful way. Younger players no longer feel the pressure to force offense late in the clock, and the floor spacing has opened up that much more. Defenses are still terrified to help off Durant, which has allowed Houston’s guards and wings to attack cleaner driving lanes and make quicker reads.
Kevin Durant is playing the perfect role in Houston
Another underrated part of Durant’s impact has been his buy-in on the defensive end. His length and instincts have allowed Houston to lean into switching and help principles that allow Durant to conserve energy while remaining the most effective player he can be. This speaks to how well he’s fit into the Rockets’ structure.
There’s also a clear leadership component that has emerged here. Durant has not needed to be overly vocal to set the tone. His preparation and willingness to take the hardest shots in close games have created a natural hierarchy. Younger players understand the standard simply by watching how he approaches each night.
From a league-wide perspective, this season is becoming another reminder of Durant’s place in history. Longevity at this level is rare, and sustained efficiency in a faster, more physical NBA is even rarer.
For the Rockets, the takeaway is simple. Kevin Durant is actively helping to create winning basketball in Houston, and as long as he’s performing at this level, the ceiling for this team remains a championship.