Kenyon Martin Jr. is now convinced that he found a home and a future in the Houston Rockets.
Sources told The Athletic’s Kelly Iko that Martin Jr. is open for a probable extension with the team, months after expressing his intent to be traded.
Martin Jr. approached the Rockets brass last season with hopes to be placed on the trade block as he had concerns about his role and position. Upon the re-signing of Jae’Sean Tate, Jabari Smith Jr. and Tari Eason being drafted and the second-year existence of Usman Garuba, his reason is kind of reasonable for his growth as a high-flying, 21-year-old cager because of their logjam at frontcourt.
But this season, Martin commanded very well and has blossomed as an impactful, energy wing guy, averaging career highs in points (11.3) and minutes (25.7) to go with 4.7 boards and 1.8 assists in all of the Rockets’ 11 games.
“I don’t care about how much I score,” Martin told Iko. “If I can get someone else open, I’m fine with that. Just me being a connector — when the offense gets stagnant, get something moving so other guys see it. And the next time we come down the floor if this works go back to it. Me and Coach (Stephen Silas) talked a lot (about it), and me being a connector on offense and defense helps us a lot.”
Several teams have sought the availability of Martin Jr. previously due to his talent and versatility, but based on his increased minute production, it appears that the Rockets have solid plans for him moving forward.
The son of former NBA star big man Kenyon Martin, Martin Jr. was chosen for the 52nd selection of the 2020 Draft. He is eligible to sign an extension, as he is currently on the third year of his four-year, $6MM deal he signed back in rookie year.
