HOUSTON — The Rockets just received an unexpected gift from a future Hall of Famer. On Sunday, Shams Charania of ESPN reported that Kevin Durant and the franchise agreed to a two-year, $90 million extension. The news isn’t shocking—Durant had already made his intentions clear—but the number is. By taking a $30 million discount, Kevin Durant has given the Rockets the breathing room they need to keep building a title-contending roster.
Kevin Durant’s $30 Million Discount GiftWraps Exciting Forward For Rockets
A Star’s Commitment to Houston
Durant was set to hit unrestricted free agency next summer before this deal changed everything. The contract includes a player option for the second year and, if exercised, will take him through his age-39 season. That timing signals what many suspected: this will likely be the final contract of his legendary career.
At media day on Sept. 29, Durant made his intentions clear. He said he planned to finish his career in Houston. His bond with the city and his seamless fit with the team both on and off the court made this decision feel inevitable.
Even so, the size of the discount stands out. Instead of taking the two-year, $120 million maximum extension he qualified for, Kevin Durant chose to accept $30 million less. That discount has ripple effects throughout the organization.
Rockets Gain Cap Flexibility
Houston is walking a financial tightrope. The franchise has over $186 million committed for the 2026-27 season, including Fred VanVleet’s $25 million player option. But Durant’s team-friendly extension now gives the front office about $24 million in flexibility below the first tax apron.
That breathing room matters. With it, the Rockets can structure the roster they want without the restrictions of being a first- or second-apron team. More importantly, it allows them to lock in one more key player before the new season tips off.
Eason’s Extension Talks Heat Up
The Rockets have been in active talks with Tari Eason about a new extension. Eason, who was drafted 17th overall in 2022, is eligible for a deal before the Monday deadline at 5 p.m. CT. The young forward wants a deal close to the five-year, $122 million contract Jabari Smith Jr. signed earlier this year.
Kevin Durant locked in. Tari Eason NEXT
pic.twitter.com/RbUspCNNV5
— V̷a̷t̷o̷r̷ (@VatorSports) October 19, 2025
Eason has grown into a fan favorite in Houston. He carved out a strong bench role early in his career, earning a reputation for toughness, defense, and relentless energy. “People in real basketball circles that value the game and understand the game, they know what he brings to the table. I think he’s going to have a great year,” Durant told reporters recently.
Kevin Durant agrees Tari Eason was snubbed from ESPN’s NBA 100 list.
“Tari is one of those players you really gotta sit there and watch. … People in real basketball circles, that value the game and understand the game, they know what he brings to the table.” https://t.co/dK9LQ0Rb8n pic.twitter.com/Cwir1IMOfW
— Michael Shapiro (@mshap2) October 2, 2025
A Perfect Fit on Both Ends
Offensively, Eason is a low-maintenance player who thrives without dominating possessions. Defensively, he’s a perfect piece in Ime Udoka’s rugged system. In two of the last three seasons, he’s ranked in at least the 88th percentile in points allowed per 100 possessions.
Durant’s decision to leave money on the table isn’t random. It reflects a clear understanding of how crucial Eason is to the team’s long-term vision. Kevin Durant’s $30 million discount allows Houston to invest in a homegrown talent who can shape their defensive identity for years to come.
The Beginning of the Endgame
Durant has already hinted at preparing for the final chapter of his career. “I think he’s going to have a great year,” he said of Eason, but those words reflect more than admiration. They show a veteran star willing to make sacrifices to help a franchise he believes in.
By giving up $30 million, Durant has positioned the Rockets to keep a young core intact while chasing titles. His deal isn’t just a personal statement. It’s a calculated move that keeps Houston flexible, dangerous, and united.
Kevin Durant’s $30 million discount might go down as one of the most impactful off-court decisions of the season.
Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
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