NBA News - Page 14

Earlier this week, Durant and the Rockets finalized a two-year contract extension worth $80 million. On this, KD said: "I can imagine myself retiring here in Houston, being a Rocket until the end of my career. I don’t like to say it too much, because no one knows what the future holds. But for now, that’s how I feel."

The team’s offensive rhythm remains strong, with fluid transitions and quick interchanges in the final third, but their back line remains a cause for concern — particularly when facing elite-level opposition capable of exploiting space.

The home side, Villarreal, have experienced fluctuating form in recent weeks, recording 4 wins, 3 draws, and 3 defeats in their last 10 matches. Their most recent fixture — a 2–2 home draw with Real Betis — reflected both their offensive potential and defensive instability. While Villarreal continue to create scoring opportunities through quick combinations and intelligent wide play, their back line has struggled to maintain consistency against stronger opponents.

The home side, Copenhagen, have shown inconsistency in recent weeks, managing 4 wins, 3 draws, and 3 losses in their last 10 matches. Their most recent outing ended in a 1–3 defeat away to Silkeborg, a result that reflected the team’s current struggles. Offensively, Copenhagen retain a certain attacking threat, but their defensive frailties have become increasingly apparent, especially against stronger opponents.

Arsenal enter this Champions League fixture in outstanding form, winning 8 of their last 10 matches across all competitions, with just one defeat and one draw — an impressive 80% win rate. The Gunners have displayed both attacking flair and defensive stability in the Premier League and on the European stage.

Joao Pedro’s recent dip in form has raised questions for Chelsea as the forward struggles to replicate his early-season impact. We take a closer look at whether his downturn should be a real concern for the Blues moving forward.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has singled out one of his summer signings for praise ahead of the team's Champions League fixture against La Liga side Villarreal on Tuesday night.

Houston Rockets – Core in Crisis, Rotation Exposed: Disaster struck Houston before tip-off — Fred VanVleet (15.2 PPG, 7.5 APG last season) tore his ACL in practice and will miss the entire year. His absence leaves the Rockets without a true floor general, forcing rookie guards Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard into heavy playmaking roles. The duo combined for 5.5 turnovers per game in preseason, with an assist-to-turnover ratio of only 1.8.

Head coach J.J. Redick confirmed pregame that Luka Dončić (27.3 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 7.7 APG last season with the Lakers), LeBron James (18 PPG, 6 APG in preseason), and Anthony Davis (19.7 PPG, 8.5 RPG in six games since returning) are all fully healthy and ready to play. The Lakers’ new “Big Three” will take the floor at full strength.

The Houston Rockets enter the new season with a young, dynamic roster headlined by superstar Kevin Durant, supported by a balanced mix of veterans and role players. If the team performs to its potential, the Rockets are expected to become the biggest threat to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference. Their goal for the regular season is clear—approach every game with focus, secure wins, and earn home-court advantage in the playoffs to fully showcase their strength.

As the Portland Trail Blazers reach a four-year, $90 million early extension with 2022 No. 7 pick Shaedon Sharpe, Fansided has released a fresh re-ranking of the 2022 NBA Draft lottery selections. Surprisingly, Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr.—the original No. 3 pick—plummets all the way to 14th, while his teammate Tari Eason soars to 11th.

The Serie A newcomers have stunned Italian football with their fearless performances. In the opening round, Cremonese shocked giants AC Milan with a 2–1 away victory, immediately announcing themselves as this season’s dark horse. Despite suffering a heavy defeat to Inter Milan in the last round, that remains their only league loss so far, proving their resilience and quality.