What is the Houston Rockets squad up to these days? Well, the team sent 3 player-development staff members to Turkey for 7 weeks. This means that the contingent recovered and trained themselves for the upcoming 2024-25 NBA season throughout the summer break. You could say this was a much-needed session, as key players like Alperen Sengun, who had a better stat than Jayson Tatum in one aspect last season, had their chance to recharge themselves, heal their injuries, and start afresh.

There is an interesting irony in all of this. The Rockets haven’t yet discussed matters like contract extension with their center, Alperen Sengun. However, this issue hasn’t stopped them from investing in their player. By sending Sengun to train in Turkey, the Rockets may be signaling their intent to keep him. However, it’s good because keeping a 22-year-old talent on the market raises his chances of being picked up as well. But, without confirmation from the team’s side, it could be slightly concerning.

Meanwhile, Cam Hodges, the coach of the Rockets, shared insights on the training. He told Space City HN what activities Alperen Sengun went through in Turkey. “Alpi would typically see his physiotherapist. Do some stuff on his body and make sure everything’s moving correctly,” Hodges shared. Then the day would roll into on-court practices, hydration, and relaxation sessions. Followed by strength conditioning activities and a good nap in the afternoon. Hodges added, “I think he (Sengun) made the most of this summer.”

Despite a conversation about a contract on the table, both parties are investing in each other. Moreover, this participation in the special training session will only boost Alperen Sengun’s morale. He is an asset for the Rockets, therefore even if they say they’ve got no contract in their minds, the team is simply lying. Only a fool would let go of someone as skilled as him, and the Rockets are anything but fools!

Sengun had a box plus/minus of 4.9, which is stunningly higher than Giannis Antetokounmpo (2.1), Joel Embiid (4.9), and Jayson Tatum (4.0) in their third seasons in the NBA.

Alperen Sengun’s tricky contract dilemma continues amidst enriching training sessions with the Rockets

Unlike fellow 2021 draftees Cade Cunningham and Scottie Barnes, Alperen Sengun won’t enter the 2024-25 NBA season adorned with a $200M contract extension. However, the Houston star has turned out to become one of the most important players for the Rockets. As the center, he’s done everything in his power to solidify the team’s position. And dare we say, he’s done a great job averaging more than 21 points, starting 60+ games in his last two seasons. But like most hoopers, his journey has been a story of injuries and recovery.

The most recent heartbreak was in the closing seconds of the Rockets’ 112-104 victory over the Sacramento Kings. Sengun sustained a knee and ankle injury and left the court in a wheelchair. He later stated, “We have had a lot of improvements in my knee and ankle. I feel so much better than in Sacramento. But we still have to make my ankle stronger. We need to get it to where I don’t feel pain.” Alperen Sengun had to miss 12 games because of his injuries, but his team managed to do good.

It is the skill that the Turkish star brings to the table that makes him an important part of the Houston Rockets. The team, however, has shown their interest in signing him for an extended period. If they don’t do so, Alperen Sengun will become a free agent from 2025 onwards. After this, it could become a bit difficult to sign him, given the demand in the market. Moreover, if the Rockets choose to “keep Fred VanVleet past this season on his $44.9 million team option, a Şengün extension may be forthcoming. If the team wants to get back under the cap in 2025, Şengün may need to wait,” Bleacher Report writer Eric Pincus theorized.

Overall, the suspense persists. Meanwhile, Sengun is benefitting from the special training. He is a proven talent, and letting him go so early might not be favorable for the team. But all we can do now is to wait and watch the drama unfold.

Before you go, remember to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Silas Demary Jr.