Failure to launch: Losses to Spurs, Warriors show ominous signs

After two ugly losses in three games, the Rockets (39-24) have fallen back to No. 4 in the Western Conference and are close to falling out of the top four altogether — which would mean starting the 2026 playoffs on the road.

So, what should Houston fans take away after a pair of concerning defeats to San Antonio and Golden State? Ben DuBose and Paulo Alves break down the key takeaways, including signs of regression from Alperen Sengun and Tari Eason; potential team-building implications for the 2026 offseason; and why Wednesday’s opponent (the Denver Nuggets) could be a friendlier matchup for the Rockets, relative to the Spurs.