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This agreement mirrors the financial structure of the five-year, $185 million extension signed by teammate Alperen Sengun in 2024, accounting for the same percentage of the team's salary cap. Thompson’s commitment marks a pivotal moment for Houston, as the organization continues to build around a core group that already includes Sengun, Jabari Smith Jr., and Tari Eason.
Rising Star Solidifies Role in Houston
Since being selected with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, Thompson has demonstrated rapid development. His impact was particularly evident during the previous campaign, where he led the entire league in total minutes played. His statistical output reached new heights, with career-best averages of 18.3 points, 5.3 assists, and 1.5 steals per game.
Thompson’s defensive contributions were equally notable, as he finished the season ranked eighth in the NBA for total steals and fourth in loose ball recoveries. His versatility was on full display throughout the year; while he primarily operated as a point guard to cover for the absence of Fred VanVleet, he proved capable of transitioning seamlessly between both guard positions and the frontcourt.
Elite Company and Future Outlook
The guard's performance last season placed him in elite company. He was one of only nine players to average at least 18 points, seven rebounds, and five assists, standing out as the youngest member of a group that featured established stars such as Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Jayson Tatum. This production has been central to the Rockets' recent stability, with the team achieving 52 wins in each of the last two seasons.
With this extension, Thompson becomes only the second player from the 2023 draft class to finalize a rookie-scale deal, joining San Antonio Spurs standout Victor Wembanyama. As the Rockets look to maintain their upward trajectory, locking in their young core remains a top priority. The franchise previously bolstered its roster with a two-year, $90 million extension for Kevin Durant, which includes a player option for the 2027-28 season.
