After a dramatic offseason that saw teams strengthening their core, the regular season is here to test them. For the Houston Rockets, the 2025-26 season has been good with the homecoming of Kevin Durant and a 4-0 preseason record. But the excitement comes with mixed feelings as Kevin Durant will debut against his former team, the Oklahoma City Thunder. Also, the Thunder will celebrate their championship victory with a ring ceremony before the contest. So, will Durant suit up against the defending champions?

Kevin Durant will indeed suit up for the Rockets in tonight’s game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The veteran forward is not listed on the injury report and will start at shooting guard in what promises to be one of the tallest starting lineups in NBA history. Durant was rested during Houston’s preseason finale on Thursday as a precautionary measure, but he’s fully healthy and ready to make his Rockets debut.​

The Rockets are starting Durant alongside Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., Alperen Sengun, and Steven Adams, creating a lineup where four of the five starters are listed at 6-foot-11. This jumbo lineup performed well during the preseason, outscoring the Pelicans. Durant has also embraced his mentoring role with the young Rockets players and feels this team gives him his best chance to compete for another championship. But if not Durant, there are a few names on the injury list.

Houston Rockets injury report against the OKC Thunder

The Houston Rockets are dealing with several key injuries as they open their season in Oklahoma City. The most significant absence is veteran point guard Fred VanVleet, who suffered a torn ACL during an offseason workout and is expected to miss the entire 2025-26 campaign. VanVleet was supposed to be the team’s primary ball handler and playmaker, leaving a major void in Houston’s backcourt.​ Also, Dorian Finney-Smith and Jae’Sean Tate are both ruled out for opening night due to ankle surgeries.

Tate remains sidelined as he continues recovering from right ankle surgery. The veteran forward has been unable to participate in recent practices as he works his way back from the procedure.​ Then, Isaiah Crawford is listed as questionable with a left ankle sprain and will be evaluated before tip-off to determine his availability.

Oklahoma City also faces significant injury concerns. Jalen Williams remains out after undergoing wrist surgery, joining Isaiah Joe and Kenrich Williams on the injured list. Rookies Nikola Topic and Thomas Sorber will also miss the opener while recovering from their respective injuries. The Thunder will rely heavily on reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to compensate for these absences.

Where to Watch the Rockets vs the Thunder Preseason Matchup

Date: Tuesday, October 21, 2025

Time: 7:30 PM ET / 4:30 PM PT

Where to Watch: NBC, Peacock, Fubo

The game will be played at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, with the Thunder’s championship ring ceremony scheduled before tipoff. National viewers can watch on NBC, while streaming options include Peacock and Fubo. This marks the debut broadcast for NBC as the league’s new national television partner.

Predictions for Tonight’s Rockets vs Thunder

The Oklahoma City Thunder are positioned to secure a victory in their season opener. As defending champions playing at home with emotional momentum from their ring ceremony, they hold significant advantages. The Thunder return nearly their entire championship roster and possess the league’s top defense from last season.

Despite Houston’s perfect 4-0 preseason record and Durant’s addition, the Rockets face challenges integrating new pieces while missing key contributors. Oklahoma City’s defensive strength should contain Houston’s revamped offense, particularly with Jalen Williams’ absence being less impactful against a Rockets team missing multiple rotation players. The Thunder’s championship experience and home court advantage make them the logical choice to start their title defense with a win, but do not take the Rockets for easily.