The Houston Rockets are expected to decline Fred VanVleet’s $44.9 million team option for the 2025-26 season but are preparing to negotiate a new multi-year contract with the guard. Discussions about a fresh extension are anticipated to take place soon as the Rockets aim to retain VanVleet while managing their cap space in the new Kevin Durant-led era.
According to reports from Kelly Iko of The Athletic, the Rockets are likely to pass on VanVleet’s current option. NBA reporter Marc Stein noted there is a strong belief both sides will agree on an extension; however, more recently, he mentioned that the Rockets have not closed the door on activating VanVleet’s option and are still evaluating their choices. The deadline for the Rockets to make this decision is Sunday, which will determine whether VanVleet becomes an unrestricted free agent or stays under contract.
Impact of Kevin Durant’s Arrival on Rockets’ Roster Decisions
The Rockets’ recent trade for superstar Kevin Durant signals a shift into win-now mode, which makes maintaining a reliable supporting cast essential. VanVleet, 31, has delivered consistent performances over his two seasons in Houston, averaging 15.9 points, 6.9 assists, and 1.5 steals per game while shooting 40 percent from the field and nearly 37 percent from three-point range. With Durant and young star Alperen Şengün set to lead the offense, VanVleet or rising guard Amen Thompson will likely fill the role of the third primary scoring option.
Thompson’s progression as a scorer and his perimeter shooting development will heavily influence whether he or VanVleet secures that spot. VanVleet’s veteran presence offers stability amid the Rockets’ emerging talents and newly acquired leadership.
Rockets’ Prospects Following a Successful 2022-23 Campaign
The Rockets finished last season with a 52-30 record, earning the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference. Despite that success, they fell short in the playoffs, eliminated in the first round by the Golden State Warriors, largely due to the absence of a consistent top offensive scorer. The addition of Durant is expected to address this weakness directly.
Houston’s depth now combines its young core, including Şengün, Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason, Cam Whitmore, and Reed Sheppard, with reliable veterans like VanVleet, Steven Adams, and Aaron Holiday. A likely starting lineup featuring VanVleet, Thompson, Durant, Şengün, and Smith presents a balanced mix of defensive strength and scoring potential. While it remains to be seen if this roster can surpass tough competition from teams like Oklahoma City, keeping VanVleet alongside Durant provides the Rockets with a solid foundation moving forward.