Kevin Durant has secured a two-year contract extension with the Houston Rockets valued at $90 million, featuring a player option for the 2027-28 season. This deal was confirmed by his business partner, Rich Kleiman, to ESPN.
Contract Details and Financial Insights
Despite being eligible for a maximum extension of $120 million, Durant opted for a lower amount to enhance the Rockets’ long-term flexibility. This choice represents a roughly $30 million concession on his part. Currently, Durant is earning $54.7 million this season, amounting to a total of three years and $144.7 million on his contract.
Record Earnings and Historical Context
At 37 years old, Durant has set the record for the highest career earnings in NBA history, totaling $598.2 million, surpassing LeBron James, who stands at $583.9 million. This achievement highlights his significant impact on the league.
Durant’s Impact on the Rockets
The Rockets acquired Durant in July through a historic seven-team trade. The deal involved sending multiple players, including Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks, to the Phoenix Suns. With Durant joining forces with young talents like Alperen Sengun and Amen Thompson, the Rockets have solidified their status as legitimate NBA title contenders.
Performance Statistics
Durant’s performance last season was exceptional. He averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists over 62 games with the Suns. His shooting statistics were remarkable, showcasing an NBA-best 49.7% accuracy on jump shots and 53.1% from midrange.
- Durant’s shooting efficiency on off-the-dribble jumpers was 50.9%.
- The Rockets ranked 27th in effective field goal percentage on off-the-dribble jumpers.
- Durant has maintained an average of at least 25 points per game for 16 consecutive seasons.
Future Prospects
As Durant aims to pass legends Wilt Chamberlain and Dirk Nowitzki in career points this season, he prepares to open the regular season with the Rockets on Tuesday against the defending champion Thunder. The Rockets are currently favored with the fifth-best odds to win this year’s NBA title, listed at 14-1 by ESPN BET.
Rockets’ Offseason Moves
This offseason, the Rockets made significant moves, including:
- Contract renewals with coach Ime Udoka, Fred VanVleet, Steven Adams, and Jabari Smith Jr.
- Acquisitions of Dorian Finney-Smith, Clint Capela, and Josh Okogie in free agency.
- Re-signing veterans Jae’Sean Tate, Aaron Holiday, and Jeff Green.
With the combination of Durant’s talent and these strategic moves, the Houston Rockets are poised for a competitive season ahead in the NBA.
