Could the Houston Rockets lose Alperen Sengun sooner than expected?

The Houston Rockets are reportedly making a questionable decision regarding the future of their core roster.

Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green have two of the highest ceilings on the Rockets’ roster, but management is hesitant to pay either one max contract extensions. according to Kelly Iko of The Athletic.

“At this point, it’s unlikely that Şengün or Green will receive max rookie extensions — both are eligible for five-year deals worth up to $224.2 million, according to The Athletic’s salary cap expert Danny LeRoux,” Iko wrote. “Houston has had conversations with both sides regarding an extension and will continue the dialogue this offseason, but the chances of either player signing a deal in the realm of Cade Cunningham ($236 million) or Scottie Barnes (potentially up to $270 million) are slim.”

It seems like everyone’s commentary is wondering why the Rockets are hesitant to extend Sengun after he averaged 21.1 points, 9.3 rebounds and 5 assists on 53.7 percent shooting last season. He finished third in Most Improved Player voting behind guards Tyrese Maxey and Coby White.

It’s also understandable to wait to see how Green progresses in his fourth season. The 22-year-old has never struggled to score at a high volume, but rather to be efficient and develop his skills. He had a breakout season in the second half of last season, regularly scoring 30-plus points on impressive shooting. Green and Sengun are under contract through the 2025 season, but they will become restricted free agents after that.