The Houston Rockets secured important contract decisions by exercising team options for guards Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard ahead of the Friday deadline for rookie contracts. Both players are essential contributors to the team's lineup and will remain with Houston through the 2026-2027 NBA season unless traded.
Despite the team option being picked up, Thompson aims to secure a multi-year contract extension during the upcoming offseason, mirroring Jabari Smith Jr.'s contract situation last year.
With point guard Fred VanVleet sidelined, both Thompson and Sheppard have stepped into more significant roles this season.
The Rockets currently rank 19th in the NBA for defensive rating with a score of 116 but lead the league offensively with a 125.2 rating after four games.
Danielle Lerner, Houston Chronicle: “The Houston Rockets have exercised the team options for both third-year guard Amen Thompson and second-year guard Reed Sheppard.”
Author's summary: The Rockets secured Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard for another season, highlighting their rising roles amid strong offensive team performance.