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After the Rockets sign the league s top stealer, fans expressed concerns about Durant s scoring burden

8:10pm, 24 July 2025Basketball

According to Bergas Argonne, a reporter from the US sports media NBA analysis network. The Houston Rockets continued their active offseason with another defensive player.

The Rockets won Durant in the trading plan and sent Jaylen Green and Dillon to Phoenix. Houston also retained key contributors through re-signing, including Adams, VanVleet and Jardine. The acquisition of Finney Smith from the Lakers and reunite with Capela added depth. And recently, the Rockets have just signed a one-year, $3.1 million contract with defender Josh Okogie, further strengthening their outside defense. The 26-year-old guard split between Phoenix and Charlotte last season, averaging 2.8 points, 0.8 rebounds and 40 steals in 7.1 games.

Okogee brings elite defensive abilities to Houston

Okogee averages 1.2 steals per game, ranking fourth in steals per 40 minutes of players who have played in more than 36 games last season. His ability to destroy the opponent's offense is consistent with Houston's defense. The Rockets ranked among the league's top defensive units last season, establishing their identity through outside pressure and inside protection. Okogie's addition reinforces this philosophy while providing depth to mature rotation players. His defensive versatility allows switching between multiple positions, creating roster flexibility for coach Uduka.

fans have diverged their responses to the roster-building approach

Rockets supporters expressed complex feelings about another defensive-focused supplement. “The best defense in the NBA,” one fan wrote, praising the organization for continuing to emphasize that end of the court.

"They are perfectly capable of winning in this modern NBA," another noted, highlighting how defensive identities translate into championship success in today's league environment. However, questions about offensive balance and depth of score emerged. "Why don't they try to find another scorer," a fan questioned, suggesting that the lineup lacks enough offensive firepower besides Durant. “How many defensive wings a team can have,” another wrote, expressing concerns about position redundancy rather than addressing other roster needs through the free agent market.

Durant's offensive burden worry

The defensively intensive approach puts the heavy scoring responsibility on Durant's shoulders. Some fans fear the future Hall of Famer must bear the offensive burden with limited complementary scorers. “How much help does KD need,” an account posted a comment, a very typical comment about Durant, who usually has a strong defense around him. “KD will have to average 30 points again to make this offense,” another fan wrote, highlighting concerns about Durant’s scoring burden at the advanced stage of his career. The Rockets' strategy seems to focus on protecting Durant through elite defense while expecting him to provide major offensive production.

Champion expectations rise as the roster increases

Houston's offseason moves make them legal contenders for next season. They combine veteran leadership, defensive identities and Durant’s scoring abilities to lay a compelling foundation for playoff success. Amen Thompson's continued development can also provide additional offensive advantage while at the veteran's core. His growth trajectory will determine whether the Rockets can balance their excellent defense with enough scoring impact to make the playoffs.

source:www 7m cn

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