NBA

Houston Rockets reportedly decide to extend key teammate to pair with Kevin Durant

The Houston Rockets are reportedly focusing on bolstering their roster to best complement Kevin Durant, who is expected to join the team next season.

Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns.
© Kenneth Richmond/Getty ImagesKevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns.

In a significant development for the Houston Rockets, Kevin Durant is expected to be officially announced as the newest member of the team, according to a report by Shams Charania of ESPN. With Durant set to don the Rockets jersey next season, there is speculation that the team will secure another key player to complement his talents on the court.

The Rockets fan base is eagerly anticipating the official announcement of Durant’s addition, complete with the iconic photo showcasing him in his new jersey. As they await this major news, attention is also turning to the other potential roster changes that will shape the team for the upcoming season alongside Durant.

After falling short of playoff success last season, the Rockets are focused on strategic player acquisitions for the future. According to Kelly Iko of The Athletic, the team is reportedly set to extend the contract of a prospective key teammate who will play alongside Durant next season.

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“The Houston Rockets are likely to decline the $44.9 million team option on veteran guard Fred VanVleet and discuss a new multi-year extension in the coming days, sources tell The Athletic,” Iko wrote on his X account. This decision aligns with the Rockets’ plans for strengthening their roster for the upcoming season, particularly in support of Durant’s arrival.

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VanVleet’s stats from the 2024-2025 season

VanVleet delivered a steady performance for the Rockets in the 2024-2025 NBA season, and could be a potential partner with Durant. Here’s a detailed look at his regular-season statistics:

NBA legend Magic Johnson makes strong statement on Kevin Durant’s arrival to Houston Rockets

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  • Games Played (GP): 60
  • Games Started (GS): 60
  • Minutes Per Game (MPG): 35.2
  • Points Per Game (PPG): 14.1
  • Rebounds Per Game (RPG): 3.7
  • Assists Per Game (APG): 5.6
  • Steals Per Game (SPG): 1.6
  • Blocks Per Game (BPG): 0.4
  • Field Goal Percentage (FG%): 37.8%
  • 3-Point Percentage (3P%): 34.5%
  • Free Throw Percentage (FT%): 81.0%
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Anticipating VanVleet’s partnership with Durant

The potential pairing of VanVleet and KD on the Rockets is poised to offer exciting opportunities for both offensive flair and defensive prowess. VanVleet, known for his veteran playmaking and leadership, will be instrumental in orchestrating the Rockets’ offense, ensuring that Durant receives the ball in his optimal scoring positions while capitalizing on pick-and-roll actions to dismantle opposing defenses.

On the flip side, Durant’s overwhelming offensive presence will create ample spacing and driving lanes for VanVleet and the Rockets’ roster of young talent. Durant’s often underrated passing ability can also trigger secondary plays, adding another layer to the Rockets’ offensive strategy.

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However, the true measure of their success will depend on shared unselfishness, open communication, and a mutual commitment to capturing a championship. Head Coach Ime Udoka’s system will be pivotal in defining roles and integrating their respective talents seamlessly.

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