Houston Rockets

Last season: 52-30, lost to Golden State in first round of playoffs.

COACH: Ime Udoka (third season with Rockets, fourth season overall, 144-102).

SEASON OPENER: Oct. 21 at Oklahoma City.

DEPARTURES: G Jalen Green, F Dillon Brooks, F Cam Whitmore.

ADDITIONS: F Kevin Durant, F Dorian Finney-Smith, C Clint Capela, F Josh Okogie.

BetMGM championship odds: 16-1.

What to expect

The Rockets had the second-best record in the Western Conference last season to reach the playoffs for the first time since 2020. But a first-round loss to the Golden State Warriors sent Houston home early before a major offseason roster shake-up. A blockbuster trade for superstar Durant sent Green, the No. 2 pick in 2021, and Brooks to Phoenix and immediately boosted the team’s chances of contend

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