Houston Rockets Begin 2025-26 Strong
The Houston Rockets have kicked off the 2025-26 NBA season with a remarkable 13-5 record, securing the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference. This impressive start can be attributed to the tenacity and leadership of their co-captains, Kevin Durant and Alperen Şengün. Despite their early success, the Rockets’ front office has not been complacent, making strategic moves to bolster their roster. On Tuesday evening, Jake Fischer of The Stein Line reported a noteworthy addition to the team’s depth.
New Addition: Tyler Smith
According to Fischer, the Rockets have signed Tyler Smith to a two-way contract in an effort to add more size to their back-end roster. This move comes at the expense of Kevon Harris, who will be waived by the team. Smith, the former No. 33 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks, has yet to find a stable footing in the NBA. However, his unique skill set offers a glimmer of hope for a promising future in Houston.
Tyler Smith’s NBA Journey
Throughout his rookie campaign in 2024-25, the 6-foot-9 Smith appeared in just 23 regular-season games for the Bucks. Despite limited playing time, he made a significant impact, contributing 2.9 points and 1.1 rebounds per game. What stands out is his impressive shooting efficiency, connecting on 43.3% of his three-point attempts. Smith’s offensive versatility is a product of his polished ball-handling, athleticism, and smooth jump-shot. These attributes make him a valuable addition to the Rockets, particularly for their Rio Grande Valley Vipers G-League affiliate, where he will likely see more playing time.
Kevon Harris: A Tough Decision
To make room for Smith, the Rockets had to waive Kevon Harris, a 28-year-old who has shown tremendous potential with the Vipers. Harris has been a standout player in the G-League, averaging 19.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game, all while shooting a solid 59.9% true shooting percentage in eight Tip-Off Tournament games. His performance has not gone unnoticed, and he remains a player to watch at the G-League level. The decision to part ways with Harris was undoubtedly difficult, given his contributions and the positive trajectory of his career.
Impact and Future Prospects
The Rockets’ decision to sign Smith and waive Harris reflects their strategic approach to building a versatile and competitive roster. Smith’s addition brings a dynamic offensive threat and the potential for growth, particularly in a supportive G-League environment. Meanwhile, Harris’s departure leaves a void, but his impressive G-League performances suggest he will not be far from the NBA radar. The Rockets’ active front office continues to demonstrate their commitment to developing young talent and maintaining a competitive edge in the Western Conference.
Eye on the Horizon
As the 2025-26 season progresses, the Rockets will likely continue to make adjustments to optimize their roster. The synergy between Durant and Şengün, along with the contributions of players like Tyler Smith, will be crucial in their quest for a deep playoff run. The NBA remains a dynamic and ever-changing landscape, and the Rockets are positioning themselves to be a formidable force in the coming years. With a blend of veteran leadership and emerging talent, the future looks bright for the Houston Rockets.
