KD Reacts to Rockets’ Frustration After 0-2 Start

UPDATE: The Houston Rockets are off to a rocky start this NBA season, now sitting at 0-2 after a narrow 115-111 defeat to the Detroit Pistons on October 27, 2023. Star forward Kevin Durant expressed his belief that the team’s frustration is a positive sign.

Durant noted that both players and coaches are “pissed off” about the early losses, a sentiment he views as a motivating force. “We want a better outcome, and it’s early, too. So for us to feel that way, I like that kind of energy,” he stated.

In his home opener in Houston, Durant showcased his scoring prowess, dropping 37 points on 9-of-18 shooting and going 16-of-18 from the free-throw line. However, it wasn’t enough to secure the win, despite the presence of Rockets legends Yao Ming and Hakeem Olajuwon courtside.

Just like their previous match, a heartbreaking 125-124 double-overtime loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Rockets found themselves unable to clinch the victory in the final moments. Amen Thompson, a guard for the Rockets, stated, “Just feel like we haven’t played a good game yet. We want to play great games. We have championship-level expectations.”

The game was tense in the closing seconds, with Houston trailing 113-111. Durant attempted to drive for the equalizer but passed to Alperen Şengun, whose shot was blocked by Paul Reed of the Pistons. Detroit’s Cade Cunningham was then fouled and sealed the game by making two critical free throws.

Durant acknowledged the challenge of balancing his scoring with facilitating for teammates. He shone in the fourth quarter, scoring 14 points alone, while no other player managed more than three. “It’s a balance I felt like when I came back in that fourth quarter,” he explained. “I got aggressive and made them double me, and I think we got some good looks.”

After signing a two-year, $90 million contract extension earlier this week, Durant’s impact on the Rockets is being closely watched. He is currently averaging 30 points per game with a shooting percentage of 53% from the field and 43% from beyond the arc.

As the Rockets look to turn their season around, fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Durant’s leadership can ignite the team. With championship aspirations hanging in the balance, the Rockets must regroup quickly as they prepare for their next matchup.

This developing story will be updated as more information becomes available.