The Houston Rockets moved quickly this offseason to secure one of their young cornerstones, agreeing to an extension with forward Jabari Smith Jr. without much delay.
However, talks with two other key players – Kevin Durant and Tari Eason – have unfolded at a slower pace, with the likelihood of a deal varying between the two.
Durant, now entering the final year of his contract, is widely expected to remain in Houston. The former MVP and perennial All-Star is extension-eligible through June 30, the final day of the current league year.
If he and the Rockets come to terms, Durant could tack on two additional years to his deal at a projected value of $122 million, keeping his future tied to Houston a little longer.
For the franchise, it would cement the presence of a proven veteran alongside its young core; for Durant, it would offer both security and stability late in his career.
The situation with Eason is less clear. The 24-year-old forward, entering his fourth season, has shown promise as a versatile defender and energetic contributor, but there’s uncertainty about whether an extension will be reached before the deadline.
Eason is eligible to extend through October 20 – just one day before the regular season tips off. As of now, there have been no reports indicating how close the two sides are to finalizing an agreement.
For Houston, the decisions on Durant and Eason carry different implications: securing Durant would solidify the veteran leadership around the roster, while extending Eason would be an investment in the team’s long-term development.
Kevin Durant Likely To Extend With Rockets; Tari Eason Less Certain To Extend https://t.co/NQdd5DmYXI
— RealGM (@RealGM) September 27, 2025
