Rockets Pick Up 2026-27 Contract Options on Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard
At the rookie-scale team option deadline on Friday, the Houston Rockets officially exercised the 2026-27 contract options for Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard. The Rockets have a promising young core made up of five first-round picks from the 2021 through 2024 NBA drafts, fueling optimism about the team's present and future.
As expected, the organization confirmed the contract decisions for these two important prospects by the October 31 deadline. Amen Thompson’s fourth-year option was picked up, while Reed Sheppard’s third-year option was exercised.
Contract Details
- Amen Thompson’s 2026-27 option year is valued at $12.3 million.
- Reed Sheppard’s option for the same year is $11.1 million.
The news was confirmed by Danielle Lerner from the Houston Chronicle, validating what had been widely anticipated.
Future Outlook
Thompson will be eligible for negotiation of a second contract and potential salary increase starting in the 2026 offseason. Sheppard, meanwhile, still has the fourth and final year of his rookie-scale contract covering the 2027-28 season.
Rookie-scale contracts include guaranteed salaries for the first two seasons, with team options for the third and fourth years. Salaries are assigned according to each player’s draft slot, with amounts descending by pick position.
2025-26 Season Performance
This season, both players are integral to the Rockets’ rotation. The team has started the 2025-26 season with a balanced 2-2 record.
Amen Thompson, 22, is serving as Houston’s starting point guard and is posting averages of 14.5 points per game on 45.8% shooting, along with 5.3 assists and 5.3 rebounds.
Thompson commented on his role: "I’m focused on improving every game and helping this team win."
Author summary: The Houston Rockets secured their promising young talents Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard by picking up their 2026-27 contract options, reflecting confidence in their core and future growth.