Houston Rockets general manager Rafael Stone said the club’s focus on ball-handling, passing and decision-making drove its summer transactions, and he believes those needs were met with the signings of veteran guards Marcus Smart and Bogdan Bogdanovic.
Smart Arrives on Two-Year Deal
Speaking to reporters before Houston’s first NBA 2K25 Summer League game in Las Vegas on Friday night, Stone confirmed Smart’s two-year, $13 million contract after the 30-year-old spent last season with the Los Angeles Lakers. The executive called the acquisition unexpected and credited Smart’s defensive reputation and playmaking for fitting the team’s vision.
Stone also reiterated that starting point guard Fred VanVleet, who missed the entire 2025-26 season with a torn ACL, is on track for full clearance at training camp. Smart, however, offers “insurance” if VanVleet’s early-season workload needs to be managed.
Updates on Durant and Sheppard
Stone noted that forward Kevin Durant appears “happy” and “serene” entering his second year in Houston, adding that roster continuity should enhance Durant’s comfort level. The GM also observed that guard Reed Sheppard “looks way bigger” physically since the postseason ended.
Eason Secures Five-Year Extension
Stone confirmed a new five-year contract extension for forward Tari Eason that includes a player option in the final season. Negotiations originally stalled before last October’s deadline, which Stone acknowledged created “real pressure” for the 23-year-old as he sought his first major deal.
Thornton Impresses in Las Vegas Debut
Rookie guard Bruce Thornton validated Houston’s decision to trade up to the No. 31 pick by scoring 27 points with only one turnover in 35 minutes during Friday’s win over Denver. Thornton said physical defense “doesn’t bother me at all,” crediting his weight-room work for allowing him to embrace contact.
Copeland Brings Edge on Two-Way Pact
Undrafted guard Quadir Copeland, who signed a two-way contract out of North Carolina State, has quickly earned praise from Summer League coach Will Dunn for his competitive energy. “We like people that have that little toughness,” Dunn said, citing Copeland’s willingness to talk trash and engage in scrappy play.
Source: Hoops Rumors
