What to expect from Rockets forward Tari Eason this season

Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason proved himself in the 2022-23 season. He was an iron man, playing in all 82 games and averaging 9.3 points, 6.0 rebounds and 1.2 steals. Despite a season-ending injury in 2023-24, he showed promise and potential, averaging 9.8 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.4 steals with improved efficiency in roughly the same number of minutes.

Eason played just 22 games last season before undergoing surgery for a benign tumor in his lower leg. The 23-year-old is set to be available for training camp, returning to contribute to a Rockets team hoping to make the playoffs.

Eason will make a big impact in Houston when he returns. His physical tools allow him to be effective under the basket as well. His quickness allows him to drive to the basket effectively and finish above the basket. His agility helps him defend multiple positions on defense, making him a valuable asset in shifts. He can rebound at an effective rate without the ball despite being 6’10”.

Eason’s defensive instincts are remarkable. He disrupts passes, contests shots and rebounds well for his size. Given the abundance of wing talent on this Houston team, head coach Ime Udoka might be wise to play Eason more often at power forward than at power forward. Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, Cam Whitmore and Amen Thompson will split playing time on the wing, so Eason would be better off backing up Jabari Smith Jr. at the four, especially given his rebounding prowess.

Eason is expected to make an impact off the Rockets’ bench. This is a young team trying to build with its core of drafted talent, and Eason has shown that he fits into that group. He can score, but will most likely be effective on defense or in other off-ball ways.

Want to join the discussion? Like Rockets on SI Facebook and Follow us on twitter to stay up to date with all the latest Rockets news. You can also meet the team behind the coverage.