Kevin Durant has officially signed a twoyear, $90 million contract extension with the Houston Rockets. This deal includes a player option for the 20272028 season. His business partner, Rich Kleiman, confirmed this agreement to ESPN.
Durant’s Financial Impact
Durant could have received a maximum contract extension worth $120 million over the same period. However, he opted for a lower figure to create longterm flexibility for the franchise. This decision sacrificed approximately $30 million but aimed to benefit both Durant and the Rockets.
Historic Career Earnings
At age 37, Durant has surpassed LeBron James to set the NBA record for highest career earnings. His total now stands at $598.2 million, factoring in both current and future salaries. This figure solidifies his status as one of the most successful players in league history.
Recent Trade and Player Acquisition
The Rockets acquired Durant in July as part of a historic seventeam trade. This deal was considered the largest in NBA history and involved multiple players, including Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks moving to the Phoenix Suns.
Elevating the Rockets’ Competitive Edge
With Durant on the roster, the Rockets are viewed as a strong contender for the NBA title. His expertise complements the skills of young talents such as Alperen Sengun and Amen Thompson. Durant, who is a 15time AllStar, is renowned for his shooting capabilities, boasting an NBAleading 49.7% success rate on jump shots.
Performance Metrics
- Last season, Durant averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists in 62 games.
- He has maintained a shooting percentage of 50% or higher and over 40% on threepointers for three consecutive seasons.
- Durant is eighth in alltime career points and may surpass legends like Wilt Chamberlain if he scores at least 990 points this season.
Rockets’ Offseason Strategies
The Rockets have been active in the offseason beyond securing Durant. They have resigned key players and made strategic moves in free agency, including deals with coach Ime Udoka, Fred VanVleet, and Steven Adams.
As of now, the Rockets hold the fifthbest odds for the 2026 NBA title at 141, according to ESPN BET. Their regular season opener will be against the defending champion Thunder on Tuesday night.