Rockets Exercise 2026-27 Options on Amen Thompson, Reed Sheppard

The Houston Rockets have exercised their team options for key young players Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard for the 2026-27 NBA season, continuing to invest in their promising core. Thompson, the No. 4 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, has emerged as a versatile and impactful player, averaging 14.5 points, 5.3 assists, and 5.3 rebounds this season and earning an All-Defensive First Team selection last year. His option is valued at $12.3 million for the upcoming season. Sheppard, the No. 3 pick in the 2024 draft, serves as the backup point guard and is contributing 10 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per game, with his $11.1 million option also picked up. The Rockets, boasting a young core of five first-round picks from 2021-2024, are optimistic about their trajectory and currently hold a 2-2 record this season. These moves signal Houston's commitment to developing their draft talent as they pursue championship contention.