As the NBA calendar transitions into July, players from the 2021 draft class become eligible for rookie max contract extensions, which could keep them with their current teams longer. For the Houston Rockets, two promising young players stand to secure substantial contracts if the team opts to extend both.
While rising stars like Cade Cunningham, Evan Mobley, and Franz Wagner have already finalized their new deals, the Rockets’ young talents have yet to do so. Alperen Sengun, in particular, is eager to finalize his contract. In a recent interview in Turkey, Sengun discussed the potential implications of restricted free agency, which could limit his next contract to four years instead of five and introduce risks such as injury before the new season.
Sengun emphasized his desire to sign a new deal soon, explaining that it would provide peace of mind and financial security, eliminating worries about injuries and future uncertainty. After a strong 2023-24 season, where he averaged 21.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists, Sengun is ready for a new contract.
The Rockets might have strategic reasons to delay finalizing the extensions, possibly to benefit from free agency before committing to Sengun’s and Jalen Green’s new salaries, similar to the approach taken by the Philadelphia 76ers with Tyrese Maxey and Paul George. While players are keen to secure their contracts quickly, the team may be weighing long-term implications of the timing.