The Rockets secured their core player, Amen Thompson, with a maximum contract.

The Houston Rockets have officially announced that they have reached a five-year, $208 million rookie extension agreement with 23-year-old forward Armen Thompson.

With this major signing, management has secured a key element in building the team's core roster and demonstrated their high level of confidence in the future of this young star.

As the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, Thompson has developed rapidly since entering the league. After being selected to the All-Defensive First Team in the 2024-25 season, he has further evolved in all aspects in the 2025-26 season.

Thompson leads the league in playing time and puts up 18.3 points, 5.3 assists and 1.5 steals per game, all career highs. This not only solidifies his status as a top defensive specialist in the league but also demonstrates his leadership qualities on both ends of the court.

Rockets general manager Rafael Stone spoke highly of Thompson, saying that he possesses top-notch offensive and defensive abilities, tenacious fighting spirit, and rigorous professionalism, representing the highest standard of the team culture, and firmly believes that his true peak is yet to come.

Last season, the Rockets finished fifth in the Western Conference, retaining most of their core roster. With Thompson signing a long-term extension, he will form the core of the team's drive to achieve higher goals, alongside Kevin Durant and Alperen Sengun.

With the additions of Marcus Smart and Bogdan Bogdanovic during the offseason, as well as the healthy backcourt commander Fred VanVleet, the Rockets have seen a comprehensive improvement in both competitiveness and tactical depth in the new season.

Image source: Internet/NBA official website