Kevin Durant has entered contract negotiations with the Rockets: may take a pay cut for the first time in 14 years, with an agreement expected soon.

On August 24th Beijing time, according to renowned reporter Windhorst, Kevin Durant has started contract talks with the Rockets and is facing a rare critical decision in his career—if he wants to stay in Houston, he is expected to accept a deal below the maximum salary.

Windhorst stated: “Sources reveal that the Rockets and Durant have begun discussions on a new contract, and it is widely believed that both sides will eventually reach an agreement, although specific terms have yet to be finalized.”If Durant wishes to remain in Houston, he will likely have to accept a contract below the max salary—something he has not done since 2011, as he has been playing on maximum deals since then.Previously, reports indicated that Durant’s max extension could be a two-year deal worth $122.1 million, but he might settle for a two-year, $100 million contract with the Rockets.

Durant’s potential salary concession reflects the Rockets’ cautious approach to roster and salary management. Recently, the team has secured extensions with Jabari Smith Jr., Fred VanVleet, and Alperen Şengün, solidifying the young core. Additionally, rising stars Amen Thompson and Eason are likely to demand substantial contracts soon, further limiting salary flexibility.

Durant’s addition fills a long-standing gap for the Rockets—a reliable “go-to scorer” in clutch moments. Last season with the Suns, Durant averaged 26.6 points, 6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, shooting an impressive 52.6% from the field, earning his 15th All-Star selection. His ability to lead the offense in crucial moments is exactly what the Rockets previously lacked.

As a two-time NBA Finals MVP, Durant’s arrival gives the Rockets a dependable “clutch performer” in the playoffs, especially in half-court offensive sets—an area where Houston struggled during their seven-game first-round series loss to the Golden State Warriors last postseason.

Rockets GM Rafael Stone emphasized the team’s shift in philosophy. After completing this major trade, he told reporters: “We are no longer primarily a player development team; this transition actually began a year or two ago.”

Durant’s signing undoubtedly accelerates this transformation. The Rockets’ confirmed starting five now includes VanVleet, Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., Şengün, and Durant, forming one of the most competitive starting lineups in the Western Conference.

Durant’s presence instantly boosts the Rockets’ championship prospects. Currently, Houston ranks fifth in title odds at +850, trailing only the Thunder (+225), Nuggets (+700), Cavaliers, and Knicks (both +800).

Whether Durant is willing to compromise on salary will directly impact the Rockets’ ability to maintain roster balance and continue their pursuit of an NBA championship.Windhorst also pointed out that the Rockets view Durant as the “final piece” for their championship push, rather than the “absolute centerpiece.”The team’s main objective is to integrate an All-Star caliber scorer while preserving growth opportunities for the young core players.

With training camp approaching, all eyes are on Houston as the league awaits a mutually satisfactory contract between the Rockets and Durant. Successfully merging a seasoned superstar with a youthful, ascending roster could define the Rockets’ trajectory for years to come.