The Rockets selected Whitmore, 20, at No. 20 overall in the 2023 NBA draft following a standout career at Villanova. Whitmore averaged 9.4 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.0 assists in 51 games for the Rockets last season. All told, Whitmore averaged 16.2 minutes a night in a crowded wing rotation in Houston.

The Houston Rockets reached a decision on guard Fred VanVleet. With the team considering an option, both sides instead decided to agree on a new, two-year, $50 million contract. The move ensures VanVleet will remain with the Rockets through the 2026-27 NBA season.

Days after the conclusion of the NBA Finals and hours ahead of the NBA Draft, the Houston Rockets and veteran guard Fred VanVleet have reached an agreement on a two-year, $50 million contract that also includes a player option for the 2026-27 season, a team source confirmed to The Athletic.

The Houston Rockets added one of the greatest players in NBA history to last year's 50-win roster Sunday with the trade for 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant. Acquiring Durant-especially at such a reasonable price-made Houston the early winners of the NBA offseason.

NBA draft came and went this week, and the Houston Rockets did not make a selection - well, not really. Two prospects walked across the stage at Barclays Center and donned Rockets hats, but they won't sign with Houston.