The Houston Rockets signed guard James Harden to the richest contract in NBA history, a four-year extension for about $160 million Saturday, giving him a total six-year deal with $228 million guaranteed.
The extension alone tacks another $170 million or so — depending on how the salary cap goes — on to a contract that still had two more years and nearly $60 million remaining.
"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," Rockets owner Leslie Alexander said in a statement. "Additionally, the commitment he has shown to our organization, the city of Houston, and Rockets fans all over the world makes him a perfect leader in our pursuit of another championship."
Moving to point guard for new coach Mike D'Antoni, Harden averaged 29.1 points, an NBA-leading 11.2 assists and 8.1 rebounds and finished second in the MVP race to former Oklahoma City teammate Russell Westbrook. Houston went 55-27 in the regular season and beat Westbrook and the Thunder in the first round of the Western Conference semifinals.
"Houston is home for me," Harden said. "Mr. Alexander has shown he is fully committed to winning, and my teammates and I are going to keep putting in the work to get better."
Fultz injured in Vegas
No. 1 overall pick Markelle Fultz needed to be helped off the court with an injury to his left foot in Philadelphia's Las Vegas Summer League game Saturday night against Golden State.
Fultz appeared to roll his ankle and was helped to the locker room by teammates. He was taken for X-rays, and Summer League coach Lloyd Pierce said Fultz had a left ankle sprain.
The 76ers have dealt with significant injuries to top picks Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons over the past three years. Embiid, the No. 3 overall pick in 2014, missed his first two seasons to injury; Simmons, the top overall pick last year, missed all of 2016-17 because of a broken foot.
