The Oklahoma City Thunder will kick off their title defense on Tuesday evening as they host the Houston Rockets. This matchup is anticipated not only for its competitive edge but also for the special ring ceremony planned to commemorate the Thunder’s historic NBA championship victory last season, where they won an impressive 68 games in the regular season and triumphed over the Indiana Pacers in a thrilling seven-game NBA Finals.
Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander expressed his excitement about receiving his championship ring, acknowledging the significance of the moment. “I can’t wait… Just to have the official piece of hardware that I dreamed about for so many years,” he said. Meanwhile, Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault recognized the potential distractions the ceremony might bring, emphasizing the importance of staying focused on the game.
In preparation for the season, the Thunder made considerable efforts to solidify their promising young core, securing contract extensions for key players including Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren.
The Rockets have also been busy in the offseason, making notable changes to strengthen their squad, including a blockbuster trade for superstar Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns. Durant, who previously played eight seasons with the Thunder, has signed a significant two-year, $90 million extension, ensuring he will be a central figure as Houston aims to climb the ranks of the Western Conference after making the playoffs last season.
Houston is expected to field one of the tallest starting lineups in history, featuring big men Alperun Sengun and Steven Adams to combat Oklahoma City’s formidable inside duo of Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein. With Durant leading the charge alongside Jabari Smith Jr. and rookie Amen Thompson, the Rockets will look to establish their dominance early in the season.
However, the Rockets will be missing Dorian Finney-Smith due to recovery from offseason ankle surgery. Additionally, the Thunder will not have Kenrich Williams and Nikola Topic available for the opener, with injuries also clouding the status of Alex Caruso, Isaiah Joe, and Ajay Mitchell.
Last season, Oklahoma City had the upper hand in their encounters with Houston, winning three out of five matchups, including both home games. As both teams gear up for what promises to be an exhilarating season, fans can anticipate a thrilling display of basketball on Tuesday night.