Houston Rockets Exercise Team Options for Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard
On the deadline Friday for rookie contract team options, the Houston Rockets secured the futures of two important guards by picking up their options. Danielle Lerner from The Houston Chronicle confirmed that Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard will stay with the Rockets through the 2026-2027 NBA season, barring any trades.
Contract Details and Player Roles
- Amen Thompson, the 4th overall pick in 2023, will earn $12.3 million in his option year.
- Reed Sheppard, the 3rd overall pick in 2024, will make $11.1 million in his option year.
While the team picked up Thompson’s option, he is expected to pursue a long-term contract extension during the offseason, similar to how Jabari Smith Jr. received an extension after the Rockets exercised his option last October.
Increased Responsibilities This Season
With point guard Fred VanVleet absent, both Thompson and Sheppard have assumed expanded roles. Thompson is a consistent starter, averaging 33.5 minutes, 14.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game, with 2.5 turnovers on average.
Sheppard contributes off the bench, averaging 22.5 minutes, 10 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.5 assists, with 1.8 turnovers.
Team Performance
After four games, the Rockets rank 19th in defensive rating at 116, but lead the NBA in offensive rating with 125.2.
"Danielle Lerner of The Houston Chronicle announced that the Houston Rockets have exercised the team options for both third-year guard Amen Thompson and second-year guard Reed Shepard."
"Although Houston picked up Thompson’s team option, he will still be looking for a long-term extension in the offseason."
Author's summary: The Rockets secured Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard for the next two seasons, reflecting their growing roles and the team’s high-powered offense despite defensive challenges.