The Houston Rockets have weathered a bumpy December (6-6) but remain firmly in the Western Conference playoff picture, thanks to elite two-way play and the brilliance of their star duo. As 2025 turns to 2026, the first NBA All-Star voting returns (released December 29) delivered exciting news: Kevin Durant and Alperen Şengün both landed in the top 20 for Western Conference players.Durant: 8th place with 548,754 votesŞengün: 11th place with 308,346 votes
Oct 24, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) and center Alperen Sengun (28) stand on the court during the first quarter against the Detroit Pistons at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Luka Dončić and Giannis Antetokounmpo lead their respective conferences, but Houston’s representatives highlight the Rockets’ resurgence as legitimate contenders.
Why Durant and Şengün Are All-Star Locks
Kevin Durant (37) continues to defy age, averaging 25.4 points and 4.3 assists on absurd 52-44-90 shooting splits. His scoring efficiency and gravity have transformed Houston’s offense, turning a defense-first team from last season into a balanced powerhouse. A selection would mark Durant’s 16th All-Star appearance—second among active players behind only LeBron James (21).
Alperen Şengün, already an All-Star last season, has elevated his game further: 22.7 points, 9.4 rebounds, 6.8 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.0 block per game. The addition of Steven Adams to the starting lineup has lightened Şengün’s defensive load in the paint, allowing him to focus on playmaking and scoring—while Houston dominates the glass at historic levels.
The Rockets haven’t had two All-Stars in the same season since 2019-20 (James Harden and Russell Westbrook). With the new USA vs. World format, media (25%) and player (25%) votes often reward team success—and Houston’s elite two-way basketball makes Durant and Şengün strong candidates.
The Bigger Picture
Despite a tough December stretch where defense faltered at times, the Rockets have rebounded with dominant wins over the Lakers and Cavaliers. Durant and Şengün have been the constants, leading a team that’s proven it can compete with anyone.
Next fan voting update: January 6. If the momentum continues, Houston could send both stars to Los Angeles—validating their championship aspirations.
Rockets fans: KD and Alpi in LA? It’s not just possible—it’s deserved. This duo is carrying Houston to new heights.