Fred VanVleet and the Houston Rockets have agreed to move back Friday’s deadline for the team’s option on his $44.9 million contract for the 25-26 season to June 29th. Both sides will have additional time to consider exercising the option or engage on a longer team contract.
VanVleet, who is represented by Rich Paul, previously said that he hopes to remain with the Rockets. Rafael Stone has indicated that the Rockets plan on prioritizing continuity this summer.
The Rockets could be active on the trade market leading up to the start of free agency with this collaboration giving the front office extra flexibility.
VanVleet averaged 14.1 points, 3.7 rebounds and 5.6 assists in 35.2 minutes over 60 games in his second season with the Rockets. During the 2023 offseason, VanVleet signed a three-year, $130 million contract with the Rockets after the team pivoted away from James Harden as an option with their cap space.
