Rockets icon Ralph Sampson shared his thoughts on Houston’s blockbuster addition of Kevin Durant in a recent interview with Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson.
“Love it. I love it. It’s going to extend his career, and honestly, they should pay him even more money!” Sampson said, praising the move and its potential impact on the locker room.
Sampson highlighted the benefit for young players, noting, “Those young kids in the locker room will be so happy to learn from one of the best to ever play this game.”
When asked about the fit between Durant and young center Alperen Sengun, Sampson emphasized the importance of chemistry. “They have to mesh together first. Once they find that rhythm, they’re going to be very dominant,” he said.
Sampson also pointed out the need to manage Durant’s minutes down the stretch. “They are playing for the playoffs now, not just the regular season. The Rockets have had a good team for a while, but down the stretch, they need to rest KD as much as possible so he’s fresh,” he added.
On comparisons between Sengun and Pau Gasol, Sampson remained cautious. “My jury is still out on that. He definitely doesn’t remind me of Pau Gasol yet. Gasol is a Hall of Fame player, and Sengun still has things to prove,” he said.
Sampson drew parallels to other young teams, saying, “It’s like what Oklahoma City did this year—they had things to prove, and they went out and won an NBA championship. We’ll have to wait and see what happens with him.”
Durant, 37, is averaging 26.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game this season while shooting 51.4% from the field and 40.8% from three-point range. Sengun, 23, is posting 21.1 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game.
The Rockets currently sit fourth in the Western Conference with a 30-17 record and are pushing to solidify playoff positioning as Durant’s veteran presence pairs with the team’s core of young talent, including Amen Thompson and Jabari Smith Jr.
