HOUSTON, TX – The Houston Rockets have completed their first 10 games of the 2025-26 NBA season, and the team’s trajectory is beginning to take shape. After a rocky start that saw them drop their first two games—one of which was a thrilling double-overtime loss to the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder—the Rockets have turned things around dramatically, winning seven of their last eight games to hold a 7-3 record. This performance places them firmly in contention for a playoff spot, currently sitting at the No. 4 seed in the highly competitive Western Conference.
One of the most striking aspects of Houston’s early success is their three-point shooting. Surprisingly, the Rockets are not heavily reliant on the three-ball compared to other teams—averaging only 13.0 makes per game, which ranks them 19th in the league. However, their efficiency is remarkable, boasting a league-leading 43.5% shooting percentage from beyond the arc. This efficiency is particularly impressive given the diverse cast contributing to the success. Key players like Kevin Durant and Jabari Smith Jr. were expected to excel from three, yet it’s been lesser-known names like Tari Eason and Josh Okogie who have emerged as vital contributors. Eason is currently hitting an impressive 53.1% of his three-point attempts, while Okogie has surged to 46.9%, significantly above his career average.
Another standout from the early season is Alperen Şengün, who, despite traditionally not being known for his three-point shooting, has transformed his game. His shooting percentage from deep sits at 41.9%, a remarkable improvement from his previous averages, showcasing his development over the summer.
Moreover, the partnership between Durant and Şengün is proving fruitful. Both are leading the team in scoring—Durant at 24.6 points per game and Şengün at 22.1 points per game—and are among the top distributors on the squad. Their chemistry appears strong, with Durant acknowledging the open looks he’s been receiving, attributing much of it to Şengün’s gameplay.
The development of Reed Sheppard also deserves recognition. After facing scrutiny last season as a number three overall pick, Sheppard is having a breakout year, currently shooting 50% from three and showcasing his ability to make plays off the dribble. His growing confidence is evident, as he has taken on a more significant role in the offense.
Despite the absence of veteran point guard Fred VanVleet due to an ACL injury, the Rockets have adapted by implementing a point-guard-by-committee approach. Players like Sheppard, Okogie, and even Durant have stepped up, creating an offense that has found a way to function, although they face challenges in terms of managing turnovers.
As the season progresses, the Rockets will look to maintain their hot shooting while addressing their turnover issues. While they have faced a few struggling teams, their impressive shooting percentages and the development of young players paint a promising picture for the months ahead. With continued growth and adaptation, the Rockets aim to solidify their position in the competitive West.