theathleticuk
While other NBA contenders made seismic moves, the Houston Rockets took a different path this summer. General manager Rafael Stone opted against pursuing stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo or Jaylen Brown, instead prioritizing internal development and roster stability. The only major deal was a five-year, $81.5 million extension for Tari Eason, complemented by the signings of Marcus Smart (two years, $13 million) and Bogdan Bogdanovic (one year, veteran minimum).
Biggest Winners: Alperen Sengun
Sengun's All-Star season in 2025-26 was marred by excessive offensive burden after Fred VanVleet's ACL tear. With VanVleet returning and Smart added, Sengun should see easier scoring opportunities. Last season, 55.1% of his field goals were unassisted, and he logged 463 attempts after three or more dribbles—numbers that should decrease with better guard play. The return of Steven Adams also eases his rebounding and rim-protection duties.
Biggest Losers: Fred VanVleet's Long-Term Prospects
VanVleet, 32, enters the final year of his contract at $25 million. The Rockets picked up his team option rather than negotiating a longer deal, setting him up for unrestricted free agency in 2027. With Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard poised for extensions, and rookie Bruce Thornton added, VanVleet's future in Houston is uncertain despite his expected on-court contributions.
Biggest Losers: Reed Sheppard
Sheppard's playing time faces a hard ceiling with VanVleet, Thompson, and Smart in the rotation. Coach Ime Udoka prioritizes defensive reliability, which could limit Sheppard's minutes. The addition of Thornton adds further competition. Sheppard must show growth after gaining experience last season, or risk losing opportunities.
Biggest Winners: Kevin Durant's Body
Durant, 38, played the second-most minutes in the league last season—2,800-plus—joining elite company historically. However, playoff injuries highlighted the need for rest. With improved depth from VanVleet, Adams, Smart, Bogdanovic, and Thornton, Houston can reduce Durant's workload to 28-32 minutes per game, preserving him for the postseason.
Biggest Winners: Tari Eason
Eason's new contract solidifies his role as a defensive specialist. After starting 34 games last season, he now has a defined place as a sixth-man candidate. General manager Stone noted that the extension should ease the mental pressure Eason faced while playing for his first big deal, allowing him to focus on contributing to the team's rugged identity.
Originally reported by theathleticuk.