The Houston Rockets originally formulated a plan to be active players in the summer of 2025, banking on their available cap space to attract high-profile talent.
However, the landscape shifted dramatically when guard Donovan Mitchell and Derrick White signed contract extensions with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics, respectively.
Both players are highly favored by Houston’s head coach, Ime Udoka, who had previously eyed the possibility of pursuing either player during the 2025 free agency period.
With Mitchell and White now locked into their respective teams, the Rockets decided to pivot their strategy.
Rather than focusing on clearing cap space for the next offseason, they chose to extend contracts for their promising young stars, Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun, by offering them rookie scale extensions.
This move not only secures the future of two key players but also signals the team’s commitment to building around their young core.
Green’s new deal will see him earning just over $33 million in the first year of his extension, which includes a 10% trade bonus, potentially making him an attractive trade asset in the offseason.
In addition, the Rockets have been linked to superstar Kevin Durant over the past summer, a connection that remains relevant.
They successfully acquired some of the Phoenix Suns’ draft picks through a deal with the Brooklyn Nets, further enhancing their assets.
Should Durant become available again, the Rockets could utilize these draft picks, along with Green and possibly other players, to put together a competitive offer for the veteran forward.
This potential acquisition would not only strengthen the Rockets’ roster but also align with their long-term vision of becoming a playoff contender, as they look to create a formidable team capable of competing in the Western Conference.
Overall, the Rockets are strategically positioning themselves for future success while maintaining a focus on developing their young talent.
Rockets Switched To Rookie Extensions When Donovan Mitchell, Derrick White Extended https://t.co/DBHabBWtso
— RealGM (@RealGM) October 25, 2024
