The Houston Rockets have been making significant moves this offseason, aiming to solidify their roster and establish themselves as serious contenders. The list of transactions is impressive and highlights their commitment to building a competitive team.
First up, the Rockets made headlines with a trade for superstar Kevin Durant, a bold move that speaks volumes about their ambitions. In addition to this marquee acquisition, they re-signed proven guard Fred VanVleet, ensuring that they retain a veteran presence in the backcourt. The Rockets also made strategic decisions by extending Steven Adams’ contract, a smart play given his experience and leadership, which will be invaluable to their youthful core. Furthermore, they’re keeping crucial role players in the mix with agreements to retain Jae’Sean Tate, Aaron Holiday, and Jeff Green, further bolstering their roster depth.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there. The Rockets have also finalized a five-year contract extension for rising star Jabari Smith Jr., reportedly worth $122 million—a solid average of $24.4 million per year. This contract, with no player or team options, emphasizes the franchise’s belief in Smith’s potential. It will kick in next season after he completes the final year of his rookie deal, which is valued at $12.4 million.
Jabari Smith Jr. is a crucial piece of the Rockets’ young core, which turned heads by notching 52 wins in the previous season and securing a commendable No. 2 seed in the Western Conference. In his second year, Smith showcased his talent by averaging 12.2 points and 7 rebounds per game over 57 appearances while shooting a respectable 35.4% from three-point range.
Notably, this extension marks Smith as the first player from the 2022 draft class to secure a contract extension, a sign of his promise and the faith the organization has in him. With other top players from that draft class, such as Paolo Banchero, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams, expected to sign substantial extensions, the landscape of young talent in the league is certainly worth monitoring. Keeping an eye on up-and-coming players like Keegan Murray of the Kings, Bennedict Mathurin from the Pacers, Jaden Ivey of the Pistons, Peyton Watson of the Nuggets, Dyson Daniels of the Hawks, Walker Kessler from the Jazz, and Tari Eason from the Rockets will be essential as the league continues to evolve.
Overall, the Rockets have made it clear that they are not just participating in the offseason but actively shaping their future. The combination of established stars and promising young talent positions them well as they aspire to take even bigger strides in the upcoming season.
