Kevin Durant’s Surprise 2-Year Extension Raises Questions Just Days Before Rockets Debut

Kevin Durant has firmly planted his flag in Houston, signaling a new chapter with the Rockets that’s as bold as it is lucrative . Just shy of the season’s first tip-off broadcast on NBC, the 15-time All-Star penned a hefty two-year, $90 million extension, locking in his presence where many wondered if he’d roam again . It’s a deal that’s savvy—around $30 million less than what he could have commanded, saving the team big bucks, yet giving KD the power to re-enter free agency by ’27 or ’28 if he chooses . At 37, Durant isn’t just stacking stats, he’s rewriting financial history—surpassing LeBron James for the highest career earnings in NBA, now tipping the scales over $598 million . After a whirlwind summer trade from Phoenix, this commitment steadies the Rockets’ lineup, a squad hungry to build on last season’s 52-30 record under coach Ime Udoka . Beyond numbers and contracts, Durant’s veteran grit and scoring prowess are exactly what this young squad needs to push past a tough first-round playoff exit to Golden State . With a legacy already brimming with MVPs, titles, and over 30,000 points, KD’s quest for greatness is far from over . Rockets fans, mark your calendars: the new season fires up October 21 against the defending champs, Oklahoma City Thunder . LEARN MORE

Kevin Durant is fully committed to the Houston Rockets.

Just two days before the team’s regular-season opener on NBC, the 15-time All-Star reportedly agreed to a two-year, $90 million contract extension.

ESPN’s Shams Charania first reported the news Sunday morning.

Durant will have a player option for 2027-28, giving him the choice of reaching free agency in either 2027 or 2028. The deal comes in around $30 million under the maximum extension that he could have signed, saving the team $15 million per season.

The 37-year-old Durant, now with three years and $144.7 million total on his contract, now holds the record over LeBron James for the highest career earnings in NBA history ($598.2 million).

Extending Durant gives the Rockets some security after trading for the former Phoenix Suns forward over this past summer. He was set to hit free agency next summer, with no long-term assurance that he had to stay in Houston.

Durant’s scoring ability and veteran presence should elevate the young Rockets roster, which went 52-30 last season under head coach Ime Udoka. The Rockets then lost a grueling seven-game series to the Golden State Warriors in the first round after a four-year playoff drought.

Durant is a future Hall of Famer looking to add to his legacy, which already includes two championships, two Finals MVP awards, four scoring championships, an MVP, 11 All-NBA teams and more than 30,000 points scored (currently eighth all-time).

The Rockets’ 2025-26 season begins Tuesday, Oct. 21, against the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder on NBC and Peacock.

Kevin Durant has been traded to the Houston Rockets, according to reports.