Alperen Sengun, Houston Rockets engage in contract negotiations
Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) scores against Dallas Mavericks forward Markieff Morris (88) in the second quarter at Toyota Center, US, Dec. 22, 2023 (Reuters Photo)
Alperen Sengun and the Houston Rockets are in discussions regarding a long-term contract extension, with a “legitimate chance” of reaching an agreement before the Oct. 21 deadline, according to the U.S. daily Houston Chronicle.
Key points:
- Sengun, 22, had a breakout season last year, averaging 21.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, and five assists per game in 61 starts. He also finished third in voting for Most Improved Player.
- Despite interest from other teams over the summer, Rockets general manager Rafael Stone confirmed that the team has no intention of trading the young center.
- At the Rockets’ media day, Sengun expressed optimism about the negotiations, stating, “We’ve been talking. I want to get the contract done, and the Rockets are negotiating with us, and we’re negotiating with them. So far, it’s been positive. We still have time, and hopefully, we can make it work.”
Why it matters?
- The Turkish center is part of a highly regarded 2021 NBA Draft class. Players like Cade Cunningham, Evan Mobley, Scottie Barnes, and Franz Wagner have already signed five-year, $224.2 million max extensions. Sengun’s future contract, however, remains under discussion.
- Financial terms could complicate negotiations. Kelly Iko of The Athletic reported earlier that neither Sengun nor teammate Jalen Green is expected to receive a max contract offer, despite their performances.
By the numbers:
- A max contract for the Turkish center would earn him approximately $38.7 million in the 2025-26 season. In contrast, if he stays on a restricted free-agent tender, he would earn about $16.3 million.
- Even with a max contract for Sengun, the Rockets are projected to be $82.2 million under the second salary cap apron in 2025-26, allowing them to avoid penalties under the NBA’s new salary rules.
Sengun’s impressive rise has placed him among elite company. Last season, he became one of only four players – alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo, Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic – to average at least 20 points, nine rebounds and five assists per game.
What’s next
- With the Oct. 21 deadline approaching, both sides are optimistic about finalizing a deal. If successful, the Rockets will secure one of their key young players for the long term.
Alperen Sengun sets records with historic performance for Rockets
In a historic outing on March 6, Alperen Sengun delivered an incredible performance against the San Antonio Spurs, scoring a career-high 45 points. This achievement makes him the highest-scoring Turkish player in a single NBA game.
In addition to his scoring prowess, Sengun showcased his versatility by recording 15 rebounds and five steals. With this remarkable stat line, he became the youngest player in NBA history to accomplish the feat of 45+ points, 15+ rebounds, and 5+ steals in a single game.
This performance further solidifies Sengun’s status as one of the league’s rising stars and highlights his potential to become a cornerstone of the Rockets’ future. Throughout the season, he has amassed several other notable achievements, including reaching 500 career assists faster than any other center in NBA history, surpassing the previous record held by Nikola Jokic.
As the Rockets continue to build a competitive team around their young talent, Sengun’s consistent play remains a bright spot in their efforts. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see what the future holds for this promising athlete.
