Kevin Durant Explains Key to Rockets' Postseason Success

Veteran forward credits team's defensive versatility and scoring depth as path to contention

Mar. 16, 2026 at 2:08am

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In a recent interview, Houston Rockets star Kevin Durant highlighted the team's defensive versatility and scoring depth as key factors behind their potential for postseason success. Durant praised the Rockets' ability to switch, protect the rim, and have multiple players capable of scoring 20+ points on any given night.

Why it matters

The Rockets have emerged as a surprise contender in the Western Conference this season, thanks in large part to their defensive intensity and balanced scoring attack. Durant's insights provide valuable perspective on the team's formula for winning and their outlook for a deep playoff run.

The details

Under new head coach Ime Udoka, the Rockets have placed a renewed emphasis on defense, ranking 8th in defensive efficiency this season after finishing 4th last year. Durant credited the team's versatility, with long, defensive-minded wings like Amen Thompson, Tari Eason, and Josh Okogie leading the charge. Durant himself has been a standout defender, ranking as the league's best isolation defender last season. The Rockets have found success when their "Big 3" of Durant, Thompson, and Alperen Sengun all score 20+ points, going 7-2 in those games. Jabari Smith Jr. has also emerged as a consistent 20-point scorer, giving the Rockets impressive depth.

  • This season, the Rockets have gone 7-2 when Amen Thompson, Alperen Sengun, and Kevin Durant have all scored at least 20 points.

The players

Kevin Durant

A veteran forward and star player for the Houston Rockets, known for his versatile scoring ability and underrated defensive skills.

Ime Udoka

The head coach of the Houston Rockets, who has implemented a defensive-minded approach that has helped the team emerge as a surprise contender in the Western Conference.

Amen Thompson

A young, defensive-minded wing player for the Houston Rockets who has been a key contributor to the team's success this season.

Tari Eason

Another long, defensive-minded wing player for the Houston Rockets who has been part of the team's versatile and effective defensive unit.

Josh Okogie

A valuable role player for the Houston Rockets, known for his defensive intensity and ability to contribute in various ways.

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What they’re saying

“Just being a versatile group. Being able to switch, protect the rim, we've got multiple guys that can do that, so it makes my life easy.”

— Kevin Durant (Space City Home Network)

“I mean, we can go to the moon. When we've got 3 guys scoring over 20 points and guarding up that way, it's tough to stop us. We need that consistent effort like that every night.”

— Kevin Durant (Space City Home Network)

What’s next

The Rockets will look to continue their strong defensive play and balanced scoring attack as they push for a deep playoff run in the Western Conference.

The takeaway

The Rockets' formula for success this season has been a combination of stifling defense and a versatile, high-scoring offense. If they can maintain this level of play, they could emerge as a true contender in the crowded Western Conference playoff race.