Rockets, Suns Both Face Contract Decisions with Aging Stars Durant, James
HOUSTON – Both teh Houston Rockets and the Phoenix suns are navigating complex contract negotiations with veteran superstars Kevin Durant and LeBron James as they build around younger cores, according to sources. both players are slated to become unrestricted free agents following the 2024-25 season.
Durant, who joined the Suns in a mid-season deal in February 2023, has engaged in discussions with the Rockets regarding a contract extension, with mutual interest reported, but no agreement has been reached. The Rockets envision Durant as a key veteran addition to complement their developing talent, rather than a primary focal point.
This shift in team philosophy mirrors the situation in Phoenix with James. Like Durant, James is no longer considered the sole centerpiece as the Suns prioritize their emerging players. Both teams are operating within the constraints of the NBA‘s “apron” rules, limiting financial adaptability.
Houston’s core includes Jabari Smith Jr., Fred VanVleet, and Alperen Sengun, who signed significant contracts this past summer. Sengun was named a 2025 All-Star. The Rockets also have high hopes for Amen Thompson and Tari Eason, both of whom are eligible for contract extensions in the coming year.
To remain with the Rockets, Durant may need to accept a contract below the maximum value he has commanded as 2011. The Rockets are balancing the need to contend with managing the long-term financial commitments to their core players.
The situation reflects a broader trend in the NBA, where teams are increasingly prioritizing long-term roster building and financial sustainability over relying solely on aging superstars. “Both teams are simply facing the modern realities of roster building for contending teams in the apron era,” the report states.
Despite their age, both Durant and James remain highly productive players. James earned second team All-NBA honors last season, and Durant has averaged 26.6 points while shooting 50% or better for 13 consecutive seasons.
“I’ve had so many battles with KD over the years and we don’t have many matchups left,” James said after a game against the Suns last winter. “You don’t want to ever take it for granted.”
The decisions facing both the rockets and the Suns will have significant implications for the future of both franchises and the broader landscape of the NBA.
