Overview

• Neither Kevin Durant nor Houston feels urgency to finalize an extension before the season begins.
• The Rockets are focusing on other offseason priorities, including structuring Tari Eason’s deal, before holding substantive talks with Durant.
• League sources say any agreement is likely to be short-term and below the full maximum contract level.
• Durant can sign a two-year extension worth about $118 million now or opt for up to $120 million starting January 5, 2026 under NBA timing rules.
• Age, recent injury history and how Durant fits alongside Houston’s young core are key factors driving the cautious negotiation and preserving his free-agency leverage next summer.