The Houston Rockets are heading north of the border for a showdown with the Toronto Raptors after winning their first game of the season against the Brooklyn Nets. The Raptors, meanwhile, are hoping to defend their home court and snap a frustrating three-game losing streak. With both teams desperate for their second win, a lot will depend on the Rockets’ star, Kevin Durant’s availability.

Yes, Kevin Durant is playing tonight. The star forward is not listed on the injury report and is expected to be in the starting lineup. This is a significant boost for the Rockets as they continue to build chemistry with their major offseason acquisition. Durant’s presence provides a major scoring threat and takes defensive pressure off his teammates.

He is coming off a 19-point performance in the team’s dominant win over the Brooklyn Nets. Through the early part of the season, Durant is averaging 26.6 points per game, living up to his reputation as an all-time scorer.

The Houston Rockets will miss two key contributors in this matchup. Forward Dorian Finney-Smith remains sidelined with an ankle injury, further thinning Houston’s wing rotation. More concerning, veteran guard Fred VanVleet is out for the entire season after tearing his ACL. His absence leaves a major void in leadership and playmaking for the Rockets’ 2025-26 season.

For the Toronto Raptors, the main injury concern is center Jakob Poeltl. He is listed as doubtful for the game because of a back issue. His potential absence would be a big blow to Toronto’s interior defense and rebounding. If Poeltl cannot play, Sandro Mamukelashvili is expected to see increased minutes at the center position.

Houston Rockets vs Toronto Raptors possible starting line-up

Where to watch the Rockets vs the Raptors?

Date: Wednesday, October 29

Time: 6:30 PM Eastern Time

Where to Watch: Space City Home Network and TSN

Predictions for tonight’s Rockets vs Raptors

The Houston Rockets are predicted to win this game on the road. Houston’s talent advantage, led by Kevin Durant and Alperen Sengun, is seen as the deciding factor against a struggling Raptors squad. Toronto’s three-game losing streak is also a factor, indicating they may be struggling to find a consistent rhythm. The Rockets are looking to get back to a .500 record and are positioned to take control of this matchup only if the Raptors decide not to give a fight.