Durant Visualizes Extension with Rockets: New Contract on the Way?

Durant Views Extension with the Rockets and Talks About His Connection with Udoka

Kevin Durant has expressed his intention to sign a contract extension with the Rockets, highlighting the importance of his relationship with coach Ime Udoka in his decision to join the team. Durant, who is in the last year of his current contract worth $55 million, is eligible to negotiate a new deal. Although the extension was expected to be finalized as part of Durant’s transfer from the Suns in July, an agreement has not yet been reached.

“I see myself signing a contract extension. I can’t say exactly when it will happen, but I think it will happen.”

Kevin Durant

The Rockets’ general manager, Rafael Stone, chose not to comment on the status of contract negotiations. Durant could sign a two-year extension worth over $120 million. The Rockets, who are in talks to extend the contracts of Tari Eason and Jabari Smith Jr., face the challenge of managing their growing payroll in the coming years, which could influence negotiations with Durant. The short duration of his current contract allowed Durant to seek a team he could fit in with, and his relationship with Udoka, with whom he worked at the Nets, was a key factor.

“I didn’t expect to leave Phoenix so quickly, but that’s the game. I quickly thought about who I felt comfortable with. Ime has always been one of those who understood what I bring and my mentality. He always respected that and gave me my space to be myself. That was one of the first things I thought about.”

Kevin Durant

Durant also highlighted how his playing style fits with the Rockets’ roster, which features tall and athletic players. Durant’s arrival, with his height of 6’11”, could allow Houston to form very tall lineups this season. Furthermore, Durant’s ball-handling ability will be valuable for the Rockets, especially after Fred VanVleet’s injury. Both Durant and Udoka have indicated that Durant will take on responsibilities in directing the game. In his 19-year career, Durant has played for five different teams. Although some of his departures have been difficult, Durant values the relationships he has built and his impact on each organization.

“For me, it’s always about making an impact and building good relationships within the organization. I feel like in every place I’ve been, from an external perspective, it may have been a difficult separation, but I’ve built many great relationships and lasting friendships.”

Kevin Durant

In other news, Dorian Finney-Smith talked about his recovery from ankle surgery and his arrival in Houston. Finney-Smith has been running, but he has not yet been cleared for basketball activities and is likely to miss the start of the season.