Rockets Restructure VanVleet, Finalize Durant Trade

The Houston Rockets are expected to decline Fred VanVleet's $44.9 million team option and plan to negotiate a new, multi-year contract to retain him as starting point guard. This move follows the Rockets' acquisition of Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns in exchange for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, a 2025 first-round pick, and five second-round picks. Houston aims to keep its core together while managing salary cap flexibility to facilitate a possible Durant extension and future deals for Alperen Sengun and Jabari Smith Jr. VanVleet played a key role in Houston's 52-30 season and No. 2 seed finish, though the team exited in the first playoff round. The anticipated restructured deal for VanVleet is expected to lower his annual salary and keep the Rockets under the first salary cap apron. Both VanVleet and the Rockets are interested in maintaining their partnership as the franchise pursues deeper playoff success.