Durant rejects a max contract extension! It's done, Durant is completely done.

Huh?

Reporter MacMahon revealed that:the Rockets are not expected to offer Durant any contract close to the max...

The 25-26 season is Durant's contract year, and he played 62 games last season with the Suns, averaging 36.5 minutes, contributing 26.6 points, 6 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.2 blocks per game, with shooting percentages of 52.7%, 43%, and 83.9%. He remains one of the league's deadliest scorers; does the Rockets not fear him leaving as a completely free agent next summer?

Moreover, playing for the Rockets in a contract year poses a significant risk for Durant, especially since he is approaching 37 and has previously suffered a ruptured Achilles. If any issues arise in the 25-26 season, it will be even harder for him to secure a max contract later. According to the rules, Durant is already eligible to negotiate a two-year max extension worth up to $112 million with the Rockets.

With Durant's arrival, the Rockets have become a newly emerging top team in the league, and they are scheduled to face the reigning champions, the Thunder, in the season opener. According to media outlet Legion Hoops:Durant has confirmed his attendance at the season opener against the Thunder, where he will witness his former team's first championship banner being raised.

Excluding the Supersonics, Durant played a total of 8 seasons with the Thunder, leading the team to the finals in 2012, where they lost 1-4 to the Heat led by LeBron and Wade, missing out on the championship. He was once the absolute darling of Oklahoma City, but after taking his talent to the Warriors in 2016, there is no longer any past friendship between them.

Additionally, the Rockets have the opportunity to participate in the Christmas Day games, facing off against the Lakers led by LeBron. This will mark their return to the Christmas games after six years. In the 2019 Christmas Day game, the Rockets, led by Harden and Westbrook, lost 104-116 to the Warriors.

In summary, at least in terms of visibility, Durant has already helped the Rockets soar again. However, no matter what, the championship is the best gift, and Houston is incredibly eager for the arrival of the "Slim Reaper" to help them reach the top of the league.

Once they lift the championship trophy, the Rockets will undoubtedly offer Durant a contract extension with the utmost sincerity next summer, allowing him to conclude his playing career here on a high note.