HOUSTON — Kevin Durant said Monday he expects to agree on a new deal that will keep him with the Houston Rockets beyond this season, although the 15-time All-Star stopped short of giving a timeline.
“I do see myself signing a contract extension,” Durant told reporters during the club’s media day, which coincided with his 37th birthday. “I can’t tell you exactly when that’ll happen, but I do see it happening.”
The forward was acquired from the Phoenix Suns nearly three months ago and is entering the final year of his contract. Under the league’s current projections, he is eligible for a two-year extension worth up to $119.1 million. That figure would rise slightly to $120.85 million on Jan. 6, six months after the trade became official.
Reports over the summer indicated the Rockets may hesitate to offer the full maximum salary for Durant’s age-38 and age-39 seasons. League speculation has pointed to a potential two-year pact closer to $100 million, a modest reduction from his current $54.7 million salary.
Durant said the Rockets’ rapid improvement under head coach Ime Udoka and existing relationships inside the organization made Houston one of his preferred destinations once Phoenix made him available. “Just seeing the quick progression of this franchise … it felt organic and natural coming into the gym and getting to be a Houston Rocket for the first time,” he said, adding praise for the coaching staff, fan base and city.
Durant averaged 27.1 points, 6.6 rebounds and 5.0 assists last season with Phoenix. Houston opens training camp this week, with contract talks expected to continue in the background.
Source: Hoops Rumors
