Houston Rockets point guard Fred VanVleet is set to solidify his role with the franchise, agreeing to a two-year, $50 million contract extension that includes a player option for the 2026-27 season, as reported on June 25, 2025. The deal replaces his $44.9 million team option for 2025-26, which the Rockets declined, opting instead for a restructured agreement negotiated by Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul. This move, coming days after Houston’s blockbuster trade for Kevin Durant, underscores the team’s commitment to building a championship contender around veteran leadership and young talent.
VanVleet, a 31-year-old former NBA champion with the 2019 Toronto Raptors and 2022 All-Star, has been instrumental in the Rockets’ resurgence since joining in 2023 on a three-year, $128.5 million deal. His arrival coincided with Houston’s turnaround, improving from 22 wins in 2022-23 to 41 in 2023-24, and a 52-30 record in 2024-25, securing the Western Conference’s No. 2 seed. Despite a regular-season dip to 14.1 points and 5.6 assists per game on 34.5% three-point shooting, VanVleet shone in the playoffs, averaging 18.7 points and 24.3 points on 64% from three in the final four games of a seven-game loss to Golden State.
The new contract lowers VanVleet’s annual salary to roughly $25 million, giving Houston flexibility below the NBA’s luxury tax line and access to the $14.1 million non-taxpayer mid-level exception for additional roster moves. The descending salary structure, starting higher in 2025-26, aligns with future payroll considerations as young stars like Alperen Şengün and Amen Thompson near extensions. VanVleet’s leadership, tenacity, and playmaking remain vital, complementing Durant’s scoring and Şengün’s interior presence.
Rockets GM Rafael Stone and coach Ime Udoka expressed confidence in VanVleet’s fit, citing his ability to steady a young roster. Fans have welcomed the deal, seeing it as a team-friendly move that balances win-now aspirations with long-term planning. As Houston aims to compete for its first title since 1995, VanVleet’s steady hand at point guard positions the Rockets as a formidable Western Conference force.
