Alperen Sengun is set to become the Houston Rockets’ first-ever first-time All-NBA player in the 2026-27 season, according to recent developments ahead of the NBA tip-off on October 21. The Rockets open their campaign against the Dallas Mavericks at Toyota Center in Houston, and Sengun’s case for All-NBA honours is gathering momentum.
Last season, Kevin Durant secured his 12th All-NBA selection, though not as a rookie to the list. At 37, Durant averaged 26.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game, shooting 53.0% from the field, 41.3% from beyond the arc, and 87.4% from the free-throw line. His consistent performance remains a standard for Rockets players aiming for All-NBA recognition.
Sengun, meanwhile, is poised to eclipse his previous seasons. In 2025-26, he averaged 20.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.1 blocks, shooting 51.9% overall, but only 30.5% from three-point range and 69.1% at the free-throw line. His All-Star selection came as an injury replacement, suggesting his rise flew under the radar.
His numbers appear steady compared to the 2023-24 season, when he averaged 19.1 points, 10.3 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.7 blocks, shooting 53.7% from the field. But Sengun’s defensive game has improved substantially, demanding more effort and focus. More importantly, in 2025-26 he effectively acted as his own point guard, leading the Rockets in assists and initiating much of their offence from the post, despite the team lacking NBA-level point guards.
The return of Fred VanVleet as starting point guard is a significant factor in Sengun’s expected leap. VanVleet’s preseason debut showed how his presence can ease Sengun’s scoring load by creating better looks and taking pressure off the Turkish big man. The Rockets’ guard rotation in 2026-27 includes more promising pieces, and the offence should function more smoothly under coach Ime Udoka.
Durant’s role cannot be overlooked either. His presence prevents opponents from overcommitting to stop the Sengun-VanVleet pick-and-roll. Defenders risk leaving Durant wide open if they send help to contain Sengun’s roll to the basket. This dynamic could lead to more efficient scoring opportunities for Sengun.
Sengun’s efficiency was previously hampered by having to manufacture offence in difficult situations, often taking low-percentage shots. VanVleet’s playmaking should reduce those forced attempts and improve Sengun’s shooting splits.
A better overall Rockets offence and improved team record could also boost votes for All-NBA consideration. While Durant remains the veteran anchor, Sengun appears to have the strongest chance of breaking through as a first-time All-NBA selection.
The competition for All-NBA honours remains fierce, and the Rockets will need to avoid injuries to key players. Sengun must capitalize on the opportunity presented by the new team structure and coaching approach if he is to become the franchise’s first first-time All-NBA player.
The 2026-27 season will tell if Sengun can make that leap. For now, his improving all-around game and the return of VanVleet suggest the Rockets are positioning him for a breakthrough.
According to Yahoo Sports.