Kevin Durant has made headlines once again, not for his scoring, but for his selflessness, which could impact young players like Amen Thompson.
The 37-year-old superstar agreed to a two-year, $90 million contract extension with the Houston Rockets, leaving $30 million on the table to help the franchise build a stronger roster.
How Did Amen Thompson React to Kevin Durant’s $90 Million Extension?
The new Durant-Rockets deal, which includes a player option for the second year, secures Durant’s place in Houston through at least the 2026–27 season, and possibly 2028 if he decides to opt in.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Durant was eligible for a two-year, $122 million maximum deal but chose to take less so the Rockets could keep their young core intact.
The move gives Houston extra flexibility to re-sign players and add new talent in free agency.
When asked about Durant’s decision, Thompson looked surprised. When one reporter clarified how much of a pay cut Durant had agreed to, Thompson summed it up in just two words:
“Generous guy.”
It was a short but telling comment from one of the team’s brightest young stars, and someone who could benefit most from Durant’s sacrifice.
Thompson, entering his third NBA season, has quickly become a key piece for Houston. Last season, he averaged 14.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists across 69 games, earning praise for his defense and athleticism.
With Fred VanVleet expected to miss much of the season due to an ACL tear, Thompson is expected to take over point guard duties, giving him a major opportunity to shine alongside Durant.
How Durant’s New Contract Impacts Amen Thompson’s Future With the Rockets
Durant’s pay cut could directly influence Thompson’s future, too. The 22-year-old guard, who signed a four-year, $40 million contract with the Rockets via the rookie scale exception, becomes eligible for a max contract extension next summer.
Houston’s new cap space, thanks to Durant’s pay cut, makes that possibility much more realistic.
The Rockets were projected to be about $80 million below the second apron for next season. Durant’s discount helps keep them well under that limit, freeing up room to extend Thompson and continue adding pieces around him and Durant.
Thompson already has a connection to the veteran star. Years ago, at just 14, he played for Durant’s AAU team in a one-off experience. Now, they’ll share the court in Houston, with Thompson’s speed and playmaking perfectly complementing Durant’s scoring and leadership.
Together, they form a combination of youthful energy and veteran experience that could push the Rockets toward serious playoff contention.
