The Houston Rockets confirmed the exercise of team options for two key players by the Friday deadline for rookie contracts. Both Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard will remain with the team through the 2026-2027 NBA season, unless traded.
Despite exercising Thompson's option, the Rockets expect to negotiate a long-term contract extension with him in the offseason, similar to the approach they took with Jabari Smith Jr. last year.
With Fred VanVleet sidelined, Thompson and Sheppard have taken on bigger roles:
The Rockets currently rank 19th in the NBA for defensive rating at 116, while boasting the highest offensive rating at 125.2 after four games.
Danielle Lerner, The Houston Chronicle: "The 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 key young talent by picking up team options on Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard, ensuring their presence through 2027 while planning future contract extensions.
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