Rockets have an enormous Kevin Durant drawback brewing earlier than coaching camp begins

The Houston Rockets made one of many largest splashes this summer season after they traded for All-NBA ahead Kevin Durant. Houston now heads into this season trying to capitalize with Durant becoming a member of younger stars Amen Thompson and Alperen Sengun.

Houston introduced in Durant to repair their offense. Sure, the Rockets had been the second seed within the West final season however flamed out within the first spherical to the Warriors. They had been counting on Fred VanVleet and Jalen Inexperienced to create constant perimeter offense, which led to blended outcomes.

That’s the place Durant is available in. Regardless of getting into his nineteenth NBA season, the All-Star ahead has proven no indicators of slowing down. He’s coming off a season the place he averaged 27 factors per sport and flirted with 50/40/90 splits, a typical theme in his profession.

Nevertheless, Durant shouldn’t be solely getting into his age-37 season, however he’s additionally getting into the final yr of his contract. Durant is about to be a free agent in the summertime of 2026, however Houston is reportedly keen to do no matter it takes to ensure that shouldn’t be the case.

The Rockets should lock Durant in now slightly than later within the season

All indicators level to Houston and Durant agreeing to an extension earlier than coaching camp begins. The Rockets wish to prioritize homegrown draft choose Tari Eason first, as he’s additionally getting into the final yr of his deal. Houston needs to have the ability to lock each forwards in to allow them to see what their financials appear to be within the coming years, particularly with Thompson’s probably extension subsequent summer season.

To be able to ink each Durant and Eason whereas having cash left over for Thompson, Durant is probably going going to must take lower than the max. That may be a two-year deal value about $120 million. 

The Rockets can’t afford to have Durant as a rental

We noticed what occurred the final time Durant entered a season on the final yr of his deal. It was throughout the 2018-19 season with the Golden State Warriors, and after his notorious dustup with Draymond Inexperienced, Durant ended up leaving after the season. 

Houston didn’t hand over lots to get Durant, as they solely gave up Jalen Inexperienced, Dillon Brooks, and the tenth choose on this yr’s draft that ended up being Duke large man Khaman Maluach. Nevertheless, it isn’t like they obtained him for pennies on the greenback both. They introduced him in to assist this staff get nearer to a title within the brief time period. 

Durant hasn’t said how lengthy he needs to maintain taking part in, however a two- or three-year contract with a participant choice would take advantage of sense for each events.