Kevin Durant Signs 2-Year $90M Extension with Houston Rockets

Kevin Durant, currently with the Houston Rockets, has agreed to a two-year contract extension worth $90 million with a player option for the 2027-28 season, which is less than the $120 million maximum he was eligible for. This pay cut was accepted to help the Rockets maintain long-term team flexibility and manage salary cap concerns, especially with key young players like Tari Eason and Amen Thompson also needing contract extensions. The Rockets face a challenging salary cap situation due to multiple large contracts, including Eason's projected $80 million extension and Fred VanVleet's $25 million player option, pushing the team close to the luxury tax apron. Durant, who holds the record for the highest career NBA earnings, expressed his desire to stay in Houston and retire there, showing willingness to take less money for the chance to contend for a title. Negotiations have been ongoing with no drama reported, reflecting a mutual understanding between Durant and the Rockets about balancing competitive goals with financial constraints. Durant's addition has positioned the Rockets as a serious title contender, pairing his elite scoring with young talent on a team that is managing its financial resources carefully.