Houston Rockets star Kevin Durant has officially agreed to a two-year, $90 million contract extension, with a player option for the 2027–28 NBA season, according to his business partner and Boardroom CEO Rich Kleiman. The 37-year-old forward, who joined the Rockets in a historic seven-team trade this summer, decided to take nearly $30 million less than the maximum extension to help the franchise maintain flexibility in team-building. This move reinforces Durant’s belief in Houston’s championship potential and his desire to play a central role in their long-term success.
Durant’s Record-Breaking Career Earnings
With this new deal, Durant now holds the record for the highest career earnings in NBA history, surpassing LeBron James. His career earnings total an impressive $598.2 million, combining current and future salaries. This season, Durant is earning $54.7 million, bringing his total contract value to $144.7 million over three years. At 37, Durant continues to defy age and expectations, maintaining his status as one of the league’s most efficient and consistent scorers.
A Strategic Move for Houston’s Future
Durant’s willingness to accept less than the maximum allowed extension—worth up to $120 million—reflects a strategic decision to aid the Rockets in building a balanced, competitive roster. According to Kleiman, both sides viewed the deal as a partnership, prioritizing sustained success over short-term financial gain. Houston has already taken advantage of that flexibility, making several key offseason moves to strengthen its depth and competitiveness in the Western Conference.
Durant’s Impact on the Rockets’ Lineup
Since joining the Rockets, Durant has added veteran leadership and elite scoring ability to a team already loaded with young talent. Pairing Durant with Alperen Sengun and Amen Thompson gives Houston a mix of experience and youth capable of contending deep into the playoffs. The Rockets finished last season as the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference, and with Durant’s arrival, they are now considered legitimate NBA title contenders.
Durant’s shooting efficiency remains unmatched. Last season, he led the NBA in jump-shot accuracy (49.7%) and midrange success (53.1%). According to GeniusIQ, he also topped the league in off-the-dribble shooting percentage (50.9%). These numbers fill a crucial gap for Houston, which ranked near the bottom in those shooting categories last season.
A Legendary Career Continues
Durant’s career achievements speak for themselves. He’s an 11-time All-NBA selection, 15-time All-Star, and two-time NBA Finals MVP. His ability to maintain a scoring average of at least 25 points per game for 16 straight seasons ranks second only to LeBron James. Entering the 2025–26 season, Durant stands eighth on the NBA’s all-time scoring list, and he is expected to surpass Wilt Chamberlain and Dirk Nowitzki if he reaches 990 points.
Last season with the Phoenix Suns, Durant averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists while shooting 52.7% from the field and 43.0% from three-point range. Those numbers reflect his continued dominance and consistency, even in the later stages of his career.
Houston’s Busy Offseason and Title Aspirations
The Rockets’ front office has been highly active, complementing Durant’s extension with several major roster moves. The team re-signed coach Ime Udoka, extended Fred VanVleet and Jabari Smith Jr., and acquired Clint Capela, Dorian Finney-Smith, and Josh Okogie to bolster the rotation. Veterans like Jae’Sean Tate, Aaron Holiday, and Jeff Green also returned, ensuring a strong supporting cast for Durant.
With these additions, Houston currently holds the fifth-best odds (14-1) to win the 2026 NBA Championship, according to ESPN BET. The Rockets open their regular season on Tuesday night against the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder, a fitting test for a team eager to prove itself as a powerhouse in the West.
Durant’s Leadership and Legacy in Houston
For Durant, this extension is about more than just numbers—it’s about legacy. He has become a mentor to Houston’s younger core, using his experience to elevate their confidence and professionalism. His leadership both on and off the court positions him as the guiding force behind the Rockets’ new era.
Durant’s blend of skill, experience, and unselfishness makes Houston one of the most exciting teams entering the new NBA season. If health and chemistry hold, the Rockets could very well emerge as a top contender for the 2026 NBA title, with Durant once again in the spotlight as a potential Finals MVP.
Kevin Durant’s two-year, $90 million contract extension signals mutual commitment between the superstar and the Houston Rockets. His decision to prioritize team success over personal earnings reinforces his dedication to winning and building something lasting in Houston. With Durant anchoring a talented young roster and a strengthened front office, the Rockets’ championship window has officially opened—and the NBA world is watching.