Rockets Star Facing $45 Million Decision Amid Kevin Durant News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Ayomide P. Adeduyite | Last updated Jun 14, 2025 8:59 PM ET

Fred VanVleet put together a strong season in the 2024‑25 campaign for the Houston Rockets, averaging 14.6 points, 5.6 assists, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game across 60 appearances. Despite experiencing shooting struggles—his field-goal percentage dipped to 37.8% and three-point percentage hovered at 34.5%—his playmaking and veteran presence helped a young Rockets team to the No. 2 seed in a stacked Western Conference.

Following the Rockets’ first-round playoff exit against the Golden State Warriors, speculation emerged regarding VanVleet’s future in Houston. With the team involved in Kevin Durant trade rumors, there have been speculations about whether VanVleet's $44.9 million team option for 2025‑26 would be picked up.

Now comes a fresh update: according to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Rockets have until June 29 to decide on that option. He adds that there is mutual interest in a reunion between the team and VanVleet.

This report comes after Charania named Houston among the finalists for a potential Durant trade, along with the Miami Heat and Minnesota Timberwolves ( via Pat McAfee Show).

"Houston now has until June 29 to make a decision on guard Fred VanVleet's $44.9 million team option, and there is mutual interest on a reunion, sources said."

https://t.co/YDVYh4jqGm
— Salman Ali (@SalmanAliNBA) June 14, 2025

On Saturday, Houston agreed to a three-year, $39 million contract extension with veteran center Steven Adams—which perhaps indicates the franchise’s clear intent to retain key experience.

VanVleet signed with the Rockets in July 2023 after an eight-season stint with the Toronto Raptors. In Houston, he’s transitioned into a lead point guard role, delivering clutch playoff performances—especially in Game 6 against Golden State, where he scored 29 points and drilled six threes to force a Game 7.

The 31-year-old guard is a two-time All-Star, 2019 NBA champion with the Raptors, and a reputation for solid defense and playmaking. Though his shooting waned in 2024‑25, his basketball IQ, play initiation, and floor management could be valuable for a young roster should the Rockets insist on keeping him long term.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: