# Kevin Durant Rejects Underdog Label

> Durant says Rockets aren't underdogs despite playoff exit.
- Title: Kevin Durant Rejects Underdog Label · Houston Rockets On SI
- Summary: Durant says Rockets aren't underdogs despite playoff exit. Kevin Durant rejects underdog label for Houston Rockets after playoff exit.
- Keywords: kevin durant, houston rockets, nba, all-star, underdog, playoffs, san antonio spurs, oklahoma city thunder, sports, Kevin, Durant, Rejects
- Source: Houston Rockets On SI — https://si.com/nba/rockets/onsi/kevin-durant-pushes-back-on-rockets-underdog-status-01m5dfqq3rw9
- Published: 2026-10-20T20:37:22+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: kevin durant, houston rockets, nba, all-star, underdog, playoffs, san antonio spurs, oklahoma city thunder, sports
## Rockets' talent gap
Houston Rockets have All-Star-caliber trio of Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun, and Amen Thompson.
## Playoff exit
Houston finished fifth in Western Conference and lost first round of playoffs last season.
## Durant's response
Durant dismissed underdog feelings: 'Other teams aren’t talking about us like that'.

> Other teams aren’t talking about us like that
## Top contenders
San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder lead Western Conference as top contenders.
## VanVleet return
Fred VanVleet returns after ACL injury to add veteran leadership.
## Sengun and Thompson
Sengun and Thompson expected to raise offensive ceilings with improved shooting.
## Durant's longevity
Durant needs to maintain longevity at 38 years old despite 26.0 points per game.
## Key takeaway

Kevin Durant rejects underdog label for Houston Rockets after playoff exit.