Houston Rockets

Kevin Durant

F

The superstar forward presumably picked up the issue during Tuesday's Game 2 loss in Los Angeles, when he returned from a one-game absence with a bruised right knee. The Rockets are likely to check back in with Durant closer to Friday's tipoff. Head coach Ime Udoka already vowed Thursday to give Reed Sheppard more playing time in Game 3, so the guard appears primed for significant minutes whether Durant is available to play or not.

Steven Adams

C

Adams was already viewed as out indefinitely with a Grade 3 sprain, but now he won't be able to return during the 2025-26 campaign. The veteran big man is under contract with Houston through the 2027-28 season. With Adams' year now over, Clint Capela and Dorian Finney-Smith are set to split the backup center duties behind Alperen Sengun.

Fred VanVleet

G

VanVleet struggled with efficiency during his second season in Houston, but the Rockets' win-loss record with him on the court (41-19) spoke volumes about his overall impact on the team. With VanVleet sidelined, the runway is clear for Reed Sheppard, who barely had a role as a rookie. Amen Thompson could also handle a ton of ball-handling responsibilities, while Aaron Holiday is the only other true point guard on the roster currently.