Goodbye 2025-2026 Houston Rockets

Credit (NBA) The Houston Rockets apparently weren't about that life

In doing our end-of-season reviews. The Houston Rockets were riding on cloud nine to enter the season. Remember, this was supposed to be the second-best team in the NBA. They were supposed to challenge OKC in the West. The reality none of those injuries were to Fred VanVleet and Steven Adams. They never addressed the point guard situation, inconsistent, and ultimately failed to a LeBron-led Lakers team in the first round. I have three questions for the Rockets as they enter a crucial offseason.

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1. What will the roster look like next season?

Houston has some roster issues to figure out. They're going to have salary cap issues with Tari Eason looking for a bag. Fred VanVleet has a player option, and those two are important decisions. Houston needs a long-term point guard and could use some more offense. I hope Houston does not decide to go the veteran route by swapping out their young core to try to win a title.

2. Is Ime Udoka safe?

I am an Ime Udoka fan and believe he is one of the best coaches in the league. Yet, the team has failed to make a deep playoff run under his watch. They have never won a series with Ime Udoka, and now it could be smoke for next season. He is likely safe entering next season and will almost certainly be warming up. If the Rockets flamed out again in the first round next season, it could be the end of Ime Udoka's era.

3. Their future outlook?

As a Kevin Durant loyalist, I want to see him win another title before he calls it quits. The Houston Rockets massively underachieved this season, and yes, Durant's availability was a factor in the Lakers series. This offseason, there's going to be plenty of smoke in Houston for a team that might need some upgrades. I still believe they're going to be a factor in the West next year, and it's going to be championship or bust. If they flame out again next year it's going to be some interesting conversations.