Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka revealed the team's starting lineup on Monday ahead of Tuesday's season opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

His Airness takes on a new role as NBC's special contributor, debuting during the Rockets' Opening Night matchup against the Thunder.

How badly did Kevin Durant want to be back in Texas — the state where he played his college ball — and to be on a team with a legit title chance in the next couple of years? Here’s the answer:

Durant’s omission stems largely from his unsettled contract situation, as the Rockets have yet to offer him an extension. The 2014 MVP is in the final year of a contract that is set to pay him $55 million, making him eligible to sign a new deal.

This feels as if it will get done eventually,” ESPN’s Tim Bontemps says of a potential Tari Eason contract extension with the Rockets.