Rockets Unlikely to Offer Max Extension to Kevin Durant

Kevin Durant, currently with the Houston Rockets on the final year of a four-year, $194 million contract, is unlikely to receive a max extension from the team despite his continued elite scoring ability. ESPN's Tim MacMahon reported that the Rockets are cautious about committing to a supermax extension, prioritizing salary cap flexibility for future stars like Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard, and are not expected to offer Durant a deal close to the $122 million two-year extension he qualifies for. Durant reportedly is not expected to push for a full max extension either, suggesting a mutual understanding that the Rockets may enter the 2025-26 season with Durant on his expiring contract. This cautious approach reflects Houston's broader strategy to maintain cap space for significant future roster moves rather than overcommitting to an aging star. The situation effectively ends any chance of Durant returning to the Brooklyn Nets, though the Rockets' ownership of swap rights to Brooklyn's 2027 pick adds some indirect connection. Overall, the Rockets appear focused on balancing Durant's impact with long-term financial and roster flexibility.