Rockets face crucial summer after playoff letdown

Houston enters the offseason with a solid foundation but the frustration of a playoff run that ended far earlier than expected. Last year’s optimism, fueled by Kevin Durant’s arrival and a 52‑win campaign, dissolved against the Lakers, who eliminated the Rockets in six games despite missing Luka Dončić and using Austin Reaves sparingly.

The disappointing finish now pushes general manager Rafael Stone to chart a measured path forward. Priority No. 1 is restricted free agent Tari Eason, whose shooting dipped but remains a valuable defender and rebounder. With major commitments already made to Alperen Sengun and Jabari Smith Jr., and Amen Thompson next in line, Houston cannot simply meet any price; a four‑year, $80 million deal is viewed as reasonable.

Fred VanVleet’s player option adds another layer, potentially shaping the team’s cap flexibility. Beyond minimum players, deeper changes may require trades, though incremental additions appear more realistic than a dramatic overhaul.