The Houston Rockets fell short against the Los Angeles Lakers in six games of the 2026 NBA Playoffs. Kevin Durant missed all but one of those games. Back when the Rockets lost in the first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs, their early exit caused them to go out and strike a blockbuster deal in order to acquire Durant. The goal was to avoid the situation again. Unfortunately, Durant’s absence in the playoffs didn’t do them any favors at the end of …