Kevin Durant's Camp Reportedly Has 'Very Good Optimism' on Rockets Contract Extension
ESPN's Brian Windhorst feels Kevin Durant's representatives have "very good optimism" the star will eventually sign an extension with the Houston Rockets.
"I've talked to the Durant's camp, and even beyond what Kevin said today, there is very good optimism that they're going to have a deal," Windhorst said at the 20:45 mark of Tuesday's Brian Windhorst and the Hoop Collective podcast.
Durant, who was traded from the Phoenix Suns in July, told reporters Monday he could envision himself signing an extension in Houston.
"I do see myself signing a contract extension. I can't tell you exactly when that will happen, but I do see it happening," Durant said, per Windhorst.
Durant is currently set to play the 2025-26 campaign on an expiring deal that will pay him $54.7 million this season, per Spotrac.
The veteran star cited the Rockets' quick turnaround under head coach Ime Udoka as one of the reasons he would consider signing an extension with the franchise.
The Rockets finished the 2022-23 season with 22 wins before hiring Udoka, who led the franchise to 41 victories in 2023-24 followed by a 52-win campaign and playoff berth last season.
"Just seeing the quick progression of this franchise, from where it was right after that James Harden, Chris Paul era, seeing when Ime got here and how he turned it around so fast," Durant said. "And I have some connections here, within the organization. People I worked with around the league already.
"It just felt organic and natural coming in to the gym, being a Houston Rocket for the first time. So, always had respect for this coaching staff, this fan base, this state, this city. So, it feels right."
According to Windhorst, one of Durant's connections in Houston is with fourth-year forward Jabari Smith Jr.
"I think they had a previous relationship, but there's definitely been a bonding between Jabari Smith Jr. and Durant," Windhorst said. "They're definitely spending time together... there's definitely been a connection there, and frankly, they're looking forward to playing together."
It was widely expected the Rockets would attempt to extend Durant, 37, after acquiring his expiring contract via a historic seven-team trade in July.
Rockets general manager Rafael Stone declined to give an update, however, when asked Monday about the status of his team's negotiations with Durant.
"You can ask, but I won't answer because we don't talk about contracts," Stone said Monday.
Durant's first regular season with the Rockets is set to officially start on Oct. 21, when Houston travels to start the campaign against the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder.
