James Harden Signs $118 Million Contract Extension With Rockets

Now that Dwight Howard is out of the picture, the Houston Rockets have gone about the business of securing at least half of their back court for the next few years. The team surprised everyone on Saturday announcing that they’ve agreed on a contract extension with James Harden through the 2019-2020 season.

During the press conference to introduce free agent signings Ryan Anderson and Eric Gordon, Harden appeared and the agreement was announced. Sources say the new deal is worth $118.1 million. There are two years left on his original deal. His salary over the next two seasons is $26.5 million for 2016-17 and $28.3 million for 2017-18.

Last season, Harden, in leading the NBA in minutes, averaged a career-average-highs in points (29) and assists (7.5), while playing in 38.1 minutes per game. Harden also had 12 games with 40 or more points and had 18 games where he finished with double-digit assists.

Harden also signed a contract extension with Adidas that was said to be in the $200 million range.

Can he buy some defense?