The Houston Rockets are finalizing key roster moves ahead of the NBA draft, including a significant update to Fred VanVleet’s contract. After declining the $44.9 million team option on VanVleet for the 2025-26 season, Houston has agreed to a new two-year, $50 million contract with the veteran point guard. This deal secures VanVleet’s role with the team as they prepare for the upcoming season and continue their championship pursuit.
The Rockets recently made a blockbuster trade with the Phoenix Suns, sending young guard Jalen Green, All-Defensive Team forward Dillon Brooks, their No. 10 lottery pick, and five second-round draft picks in exchange for superstar Kevin Durant. Durant is expected to fill the small forward position formerly held by Brooks, joining a frontcourt alongside Jabari Smith Jr. and All-Star center Alperen Sengun.
Durant, a 15-time All-Star, remains one of the NBA’s most versatile and dangerous scorers, posing a major challenge for opposing defenses. His arrival signals Houston’s intent to compete seriously for an NBA title, aiming to end a long championship drought dating back to 1995. Last season, the Rockets finished 52-30 but fell in the first round of the playoffs, losing in seven games to Durant’s former Golden State Warriors team.
Rockets Shift to a More Flexible Contract with Fred VanVleet
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Houston chose not to exercise VanVleet’s $44.9 million team option for 2025-26 but quickly secured a new agreement, which includes a player option for the 2026-27 season. The new two-year contract worth $50 million represents a more manageable salary cap commitment.
VanVleet, a former NBA champion and All-Star with the Toronto Raptors, averaged 14.1 points, 5.6 assists, and 3.7 rebounds over 60 games last season. His shooting percentages stood at .378 from the field, .345 on three-pointers, and an .810 free throw percentage, illustrating his consistent offensive contributions.
The restructured contract positions the Rockets to operate below the NBA’s luxury tax apron this offseason. As basketball analyst Keith Smith pointed out, this financial flexibility improves Houston’s chances of using the full non-taxpayer mid-level exception, which can reach $14.1 million annually. Meanwhile, Yossi Gozlan of Third Apron confirms the new deal helps Houston avoid the repeater tax penalties that limit salary cap space.
By retaining a veteran presence like VanVleet on a cost-effective contract, the Rockets strengthen their backcourt depth while maintaining salary flexibility to pursue additional talent in a competitive Western Conference landscape.
Kevin Durant Begins Integration with Rockets Immediately
Kevin Durant has already resumed practice with the Houston Rockets shortly after the trade was finalized, signaling his readiness to contribute to the team’s evolving roster. His quick return to the gym underscores both his commitment and the Rockets’ urgency to develop chemistry ahead of the new season.
Durant’s arrival, combined with the secured VanVleet Rockets contract and the existing core of Smith Jr. and Sengun, creates a balanced mix of youth and experience. This blend is vital as Houston aims to build on its recent progress and position itself as a formidable contender in the West.
With these moves, the Rockets show clear momentum heading into the draft and offseason, as they balance star acquisitions with prudent financial decisions to craft a competitive squad capable of challenging top teams next year.