Zach Kram of ESPN gave the Rockets a high grade after extending Tari Eason for a reasonable price over five years.
The Houston Rockets took care of their biggest offseason priority last week, re-signing restricted free agent Tari Eason on a five-year $81.5 million contract. Last season in 60 games, Eason was once again a reliable “3-and-D” wing, stifling opponents on the perimeter. The former LSU product averaged 10.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.5 blocks while shooting 35.8% from beyond the arc.
As a result, ESPN writer Zach Kram gave the Rockets an “A” grade for the new contract. Kram praised Houston for finding a way to extend another one of their current players, saying, “The Rockets have been one of the new model teams in how to negotiate with their own players: Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun, Jalen Green and Fred VanVleet all signed deals with some team-friendly elements, rather than their individual maximums.” At an average annual value of $16.3 million, Eason’s deal appears to be great value, especially considering that he’s set to enter his age-25 season.
In a new era of finances throughout the NBA, deals like these have been vital for the Rockets to remain in contention with plenty of talented players like the aforementioned Durant and Sengun. Entering a contract year in the 2026-27 season, Houston will hope to reach an extension with Amen Thompson as well before he reaches restricted free agency next summer.
