Rockets sign James Harden to richest extension ever, will pay him $228 million

The Rockets have made it official, signing James Harden to a four-year extension that will keep him in a Houston Rockets uniform until 2023.

“Houston is home for me,” said Harden in the Rockets official press release.

With the extension, the largest ever in the NBA, the Rockets will pay Harden $228 million over the next six seasons. He is due over $59 million for the next two, with the four new seasons worth roughly $169 million. He will be paid just under $47 million for the 2022-23 season.

Signing the extension does not impact the Rockets’ cap situation for this season or next.

“Since he arrived in Houston, James has exhibited the incredible work ethic, desire to win, and passion to be the best that has made him one of the most unique and talented superstars in the history of the game,” said Rockets owner Les Alexander.

That’s a lot of bank for a guard who will be 34 years old at the end of the extension, but Harden is an MVP-caliber talent and the impact to the organization is not just felt on the floor.