Durant Pushes Back on Udoka's Plan to Cut His Minutes

The Rockets star says he and the team are both better when he's on the floor, pushing back on his coach's plan to reduce his workload for 2026-27.

Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant has made clear he does not welcome head coach Ime Udoka's intention to lighten his playing time and overall workload for the upcoming 2026-27 campaign.

Asked about the plan, Durant responded bluntly, according to Underdog NBA: "Why? ... I'm better on the court. The team is better when I'm on the court."

Durant has typically been durable, but he sat out five of Houston's six first-round playoff games against the Los Angeles Lakers last season, a series the Rockets lost. He is no longer the player he was during his prime years with the Golden State Warriors, though he still scores effectively from all three levels and creates his own shot in halfcourt situations.

Now entering his second season in Houston, Durant is expected to build chemistry with Alperen Sengun and the newly re-signed Amen Thompson as the Rockets chase the Oklahoma City Thunder and the San Antonio Spurs, the reigning Western Conference champions.

It is unclear whether Udoka will adjust his approach and play Durant extended minutes. Houston opens the season at home against the Dallas Mavericks on October 21.