Kevin Durant Set for $80M Rockets Extension

Kevin Durant is increasingly expected to be offered an extension by the Houston Rockets that falls short of the two‑year, $120 million maximum — multiple cap experts told Marc Stein they’d “urge Houston… to cap any offer at $80 million over two years.” How big that offer can be will hinge on keeping young core pieces: Tari Eason needs an extension by Monday (ESPN projects four years, $80M) and Amen Thompson is widely expected to command a max when eligible. Durant’s choice to take less money could be the difference between preserving talent and squeezing the roster under cap and luxury‑tax pressure. Merlin sees a veteran weighing legacy over ledger. Durant’s stated goal — to “join a title contender that didn't need to give up too many key pieces” — hints he might leave salary on the table to maintain Houston’s window. If he trims pay, the Rockets keep flexibility; if not, tough roster math follows.