09/23/2026, 7:30 PM

Uncertain return timeline

Adams referred to the ankle surgery he underwent in January as "complicated." The veteran center's status will remain worth monitoring throughout training camp and the preseason. Clint Capela should take on the leftover reps as the No. 2 center until Adams is cleared for action.

09/23/2026, 7:15 PM

Trims down this offseason

Capela could occupy the backup center role to open the season due to the uncertainty surrounding the status of Steven Adams, who's coming off ankle surgery. Alperen Sengun will handle the lion's share of the minutes at center, likely leaving Capela to fight for scraps off the bench in any event.

09/23/2026, 7:06 PM

Downplays talk of reduced minutes

The future Hall of Famer logged 78 regular-season appearances last year, his most since 2018-19 with the Warriors. Durant also averaged 36.4 minutes per game before going down with an ankle injury and missing five of Houston's six playoff contests. However, it doesn't sound like the 37-year-old perennial All-Star is ready to take it easy for the contending Rockets in 2026-27. Durant trails only LeBron James among the NBA's active minutes leaders.