UPDATE: Kevin Durant took full responsibility for the Houston Rockets’ crushing 125-124 double-overtime loss against the Oklahoma City Thunder on October 24, 2023, at the Paycom Center. In a game marked by high stakes and emotional intensity, Durant’s crucial mistakes may have cost his new team a potential victory.
Durant, who scored 23 points on 9-of-16 shooting, expressed regret over key plays that swung the game. “I missed the free throws, and I fouled somebody at the end,” he stated postgame. “I think those two plays are the reason we lost,” highlighting the urgency of his performance as he adjusted to his new role with the Rockets.
The night was particularly poignant as Oklahoma City celebrated their recent NBA championship with a ring ceremony and a banner-raising, adding to the pressure on the Rockets. With the game tied at 124-123 in the second overtime, Durant fouled Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, sending him to the free-throw line for the winning points. “I’ve got to stay down, be more disciplined,” Durant admitted, reflecting on the critical moment.
Houston had a chance to win in regulation when Durant missed a pivotal free throw with just 9.5 seconds left, allowing the Thunder to tie the game moments later. “It was a missed opportunity,” Durant acknowledged, emphasizing the emotional weight of the loss.
In a bizarre twist, Durant almost faced further disaster when he mistakenly called a timeout that the Rockets didn’t have during the first overtime. The crowd of 18,203 erupted in boos. “I think definitely he called timeout about three times,” Gilgeous-Alexander commented on the incident, reflecting the tension and stakes of the moment.
Despite the loss, Durant’s potential as a key player for the Rockets was evident. He demonstrated impressive shooting, particularly with 5 of 6 on two-point jumpers, a skill that Houston desperately needs to cultivate. “He’s making our jobs easy,” said teammate Alperen Sengun, who scored a remarkable 39 points and grabbed 11 rebounds.
Durant praised Sengun’s performance, stating, “We’re gonna need that from him as much as we can.” The duo’s chemistry could be pivotal for Houston moving forward, providing fans with hope for the season ahead.
Durant and the Rockets made history with their starting lineup, averaging an impressive height of 82.2 inches, marking the tallest group of starters in an NBA opener since records began in 1970-71. This unique height advantage should enhance their gameplay as the season progresses.
Looking ahead, the Rockets will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for their next matchup. Durant’s ability to learn from this experience will be crucial as he integrates into the Rockets’ system and strives to lead them to victory. “We make plays as a team,” Durant concluded, emphasizing the shared responsibility of success.
As the NBA season unfolds, all eyes will be on Durant and the Rockets to see how they bounce back from this heartbreaking night. Fans are eager for redemption and a chance to see the potential of this new team dynamic.
