What's happened
Kevin Durant has agreed to a two-year, $90 million extension with the Houston Rockets, including a player option for 2027-28. The deal is below the maximum but will push his career earnings to nearly $600 million. Durant, 37, aims to bolster Houston's roster after a trade from the Suns.
What's behind the headline?
Durant's new contract reflects his status as one of the NBA's highest earners and a key scorer. The deal, while less than the maximum, secures his presence in Houston, where he is expected to provide perimeter scoring alongside Alperen Sengun. His career trajectory suggests he will pass Wilt Chamberlain and Dirk Nowitzki in all-time points this season, assuming health. The move indicates Houston's strategy to leverage Durant's scoring to contend for playoff success, though his age and injury history remain considerations. The Rockets' recent performance and roster changes highlight their ongoing rebuild, with Durant's experience seen as a stabilizing factor. His signing also underscores the trend of veteran stars seeking lucrative contracts late in their careers, often prioritizing team impact over maximum salary. The deal's timing, shortly before the season, suggests Houston is betting on Durant's ability to lead a playoff push, but the team’s overall depth and recent playoff results temper expectations. Overall, this move will likely shape Houston's ambitions for the next two seasons, with Durant's scoring and leadership expected to be pivotal.
What the papers say
The New York Post reports Durant's two-year extension worth $90 million, noting it is about $30 million less than the maximum contract he was eligible for. The article highlights Durant's career earnings nearing $600 million and his expected passing of Wilt Chamberlain and Dirk Nowitzki in points this season. It also details his recent trade history and the Rockets' performance last season. The article emphasizes Durant's role in Houston's roster and their playoff ambitions.
Contrasting perspectives are limited, but the focus remains on Durant's financial and on-court impact. The article from the NY Post underscores the significance of the deal in the context of Durant's career earnings and legacy, framing it as a strategic move for Houston to contend with a veteran star. No other sources provided a different angle or critique, so the coverage remains straightforward and fact-based.
How we got here
Durant was traded from Brooklyn to Phoenix in 2023, then moved to the Suns after a record seven-team trade. Last season, he averaged 26.6 points but missed the playoffs. The Rockets finished last season with 52 wins, but were eliminated in the first round. Durant's signing signals Houston's intent to improve their roster with his scoring ability.
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