Rockets superstar responds to criticism over $90 million contract extension

Kevin Durant got into a social media spat with a fan over his new contract extension on Sunday.

Durant recently agreed to a two-year, $90 million extension with the Houston Rockets, per ESPN’s Shams Charania. Durant was traded to Houston this offseason from the Phoenix Suns, and is sure to help push the Rockets into title contenders for 2026. 

Durant was eligible for a $120 million extension, but opted to take less for flexibility reasons. Even so, some critiqued Durant for the large amount of money that will be owed to him through his age-39 season. 

A Knicks fan on X commented on Durant’s extension with a hint of criticism.

“KD locked in $45 million in guaranteed money for his age-39 season… not sure I’d characterize that as an unselfish sacrifice,” they wrote. 

Durant then chirped back at the fan with, “What would u characterize it as? Since we characterizing s*** this morning.” To which the fan then backed down, saying “I’d say it’s pretty smart business for both parties… rockets lock-in an aging but still incredibly productive player. A bit risky but prob worth it considering they feel they can legitimately compete for a title over the next 3 seasons. You lock-in another huge guaranteed payday (advisable at age 37).”

Of course, Durant’s history with the Knicks is lengthy despite never suiting up for the franchise, most notably when he brushed off the Knicks to sign with the Brooklyn Nets in 2019.  

Nonetheless, Durant will now be a part of the Rockets’ newfound title window for the forseeable future. Durant can still fill up the basket with the best of them, and should be a key figure to a Rockets team that broke out in a big way in 2025. As for the Knicks, they are just fine without Durant, and are in firm position to contend for a title in 2026 as well.