The Oklahoma City Thunder–Houston Rocket game was a thrilling battle between two teams that look like they may once again be among the top in the conference. The 2025–26 NBA season opened with double overtime drama, superstar performances, and early signs of which teams are built to contend.
1. OKC is Built to Repeat
The defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder edged the Houston Rockets 125–124 in double overtime, even without one of their key starters, Jalen Williams. Ajay Mitchell stepped up with 16 crucial points, showcasing the Thunder’s depth and balance. Despite missing key pieces, OKC displayed the same composure and chemistry that fueled their title run. The message was clear: this team is built to defend its crown.
2. Alperen Şengün is a Budding Superstar
Houston’s Alperen Şengün continues to look like one of the NBA’s brightest young stars. The All-Star dominated with 39 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists, controlling the game on both ends. While Şengün shined, the Rockets’ offense often looked disjointed, highlighting their need for a true point guard to bring consistency. Kevin Durant, however, fit seamlessly into Ime Udoka’s system, giving Houston a potent mix of size, skill, and scoring. With the tallest lineup in the league, the Rockets have the pieces, they just need cohesion.
3. Golden State Can Still Contend
Don’t count out the Warriors just yet. Led by Steph Curry and Jimmy Butler, Golden State looked sharp and in sync. Butler dropped 31 points on 50% shooting, while Curry added 23 in a balanced offensive effort. Their leadership and late-game poise remind everyone that experience still matters in a conference filled with young stars. The Warriors’ defensive effort and chemistry suggest this group isn’t ready to fade quietly.
4. The Lakers Still Can’t Get Stops
The Lakers’ ongoing defensive issues resurfaced in a 43-point clinic from Luka Dončić. Luka added 12 rebounds, 9 assists, and 2 steals, controlling the tempo from start to finish. Gabe Vincent’s struggles since leaving Miami continued with just 3 points in 29 minutes, while Golden State’s Buddy Hield nearly outscored the Lakers’ entire bench (17 to 18). Until Los Angeles finds a way to defend consistently, they’ll remain on the outside looking in among true contenders.
The season’s first two games gave fans a glimpse of what’s ahead: rising stars, deep rosters, and championship-caliber basketball.
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