The Houston Rockets have more than just Fred VanVleet’s future to sort out this summer. Tari Eason hit restricted free agency on June 30 and the 25-year-old forward is about to get paid. The question is how much and by whom.
Eason played 60 games this past season, his most since his rookie year. That matters because the Rockets didn’t reach an extension with him before the 2025-26 campaign and now other teams can make offers. John Hollinger of The Athletic reported that Eason is likely to command close to $75 million over three years. But here’s the catch — not all of that money is expected to be guaranteed.
“The question is more about how many contractual bells and whistles will be attached to guard against physical issues,” Hollinger wrote. “Houston will surely tender him his $8 million qualifying offer, and one presumes the Rockets would match reasonable offer sheets given their mostly manageable cap sheet.”
How Eason’s Market Is Shaping Up
The Rockets can match any offer sheet Eason signs. But they might have to pay more than they wanted. Houston reportedly offered around $100 million over several years at the start of the season, but injury concerns kept that money from being fully guaranteed. Eason appeared in all eight playoff games too, which only strengthens his bargaining position.
The Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers have both maintained interest, according to reports. That could push the final number higher. Eason averaged 10.5 points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game while shooting 35.8 percent from three during the regular season. At 6-foot-8, he can guard multiple positions and his disruptive style on defense showed consistently all year.
The Rockets are almost certain to tender that $8 million qualifying offer. That buys them the right to match. But if a team like the Lakers comes in with a front-loaded offer sheet, Houston has to decide whether to tie up cap space or let him walk.
Eason was the No. 17 pick in the 2022 draft and has steadily improved. His ability to defend and hit threes at a decent rate makes him valuable in a league that values both. The eventual deal he signs could end up being even more lucrative than the $75 million projection, especially if multiple teams get into a bidding war. The Rockets have the cap room to keep him but they also have to think about what that does to their flexibility down the road.
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