Rockets Acquire Durant, Weigh Extension Amid Cap Concerns

The Houston Rockets acquired Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns in a blockbuster trade, sending Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, a 2025 first-round pick, and five second-round picks to Phoenix. Durant, at age 36, joins Alperen Sengun and Amen Thompson to form one of the NBA's top trios, immediately boosting the Rockets' championship aspirations. Despite Durant's star status, the Rockets, led by GM Rafael Stone, are cautious about offering a maximum-value extension due to salary cap concerns and future planning, especially for Amen Thompson’s potential extension in 2027. Reports indicate Houston may offer Durant a contract well below the two-year, $122 million maximum or allow him to play out his $54.7 million expiring deal. The team's approach reflects both the constraints of the NBA's current collective bargaining agreement and a focus on long-term sustainability. The resolution of Durant's contract negotiations will be pivotal for both his future and the Rockets' trajectory.