The Houston Rockets and Kevin Durant are in no rush to finalize a contract extension, according to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon.
Speaking on NBA Today, MacMahon said there is “not a sense of urgency” from either side, noting that the Rockets have other offseason priorities and plan to take a patient approach.
Durant, who turns 37 next month, was acquired by Houston in July through a seven-team trade that cost the Rockets Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks and future draft picks. The move signaled a push to contend immediately while preserving flexibility for the future.
NBC Sports has reported that the veteran forward may be considering a two-year, $100 million extension, roughly $50 million per season, instead of a full maximum deal. This would be about $10 million less annually than the max.
On The Hoop Collective podcast, MacMahon added that Houston is “not going all in” on securing a long-term deal right now, while ESPN’s Brian Windhorst noted that general manager Rafael Stone has a history of favoring shorter-term contracts even for star players.
Durant is entering the final year of the four-year, $194 million contract he signed with the Brooklyn Nets in 2021. Without an extension, he would become an unrestricted free agent next summer.
Last season with the Phoenix Suns, Durant averaged 26.6 points, 6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists while shooting 52.3% from the field and 43.1% from three-point range, maintaining his status as one of the league’s most efficient scorers.
Houston’s roster currently features a mix of rising talents like Jabari Smith Jr. and Tari Eason alongside experienced veterans such as Fred VanVleet and Clint Capela. Keeping cap flexibility could allow the Rockets to pivot quickly if roster adjustments are needed.
While a deal could still be reached before the season starts, both Durant and the Rockets appear comfortable letting negotiations extend into the regular season.
