Tari Eason led an impressive comeback for the Houston Rockets on Saturday night, almost turning the game around.
Impressive Performance
Eason scored a career-high 27 points in the Rockets’ 127-121 loss to the Golden State Warriors. In the fourth quarter alone, he added 10 points and three steals, including crucial free throws that tied the game at the end of regular time. Although they couldn’t keep up in overtime, Eason’s presence made a significant impact during his 35 minutes on the court. His defensive skills have been outstanding all season, ranking fifth in steals despite not being a starter. He averages 2.2 steals and one block per game while shooting impressively from both three-point range and overall.
Advanced Stats and Fan Love
Eason’s advanced stats are remarkable. He’s second in defensive box score plus/minus just behind Chet Holmgren and third overall after Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Fans adore him not only for his skills but also for his open dislike of their rivals, the Golden State Warriors.
Asked Tari Eason what led to the Rockets increased energy and effort: “I don’t like the Warriors.”
โ Jonathan Feigen (@Jonathan_Feigen)
We think it’s refreshing when players show real emotions like this!
The Dilemma with Playing Time
The challenge for Houston is finding more court time for Eason because there’s a veteran blocking his path with a long-term contract.
Dillon Brooks is currently shooting just above 30% from beyond the arc this season with five assists over six games. While Brooks hasn’t been terrible, Eason has outperformed him clearly.
Brooks has three years remaining on his contract worth over $62 million. The Rockets might be cautious about benching such a player so early in their season, but as Rob Mahoney from The Ringer suggests, they need to make room for Eason somehow.
Tari Eason is at the level where you do *whatever* you have to do to get him more minutes.
โ Rob Mahoney (@RobMahoney)
A Bright Future Ahead?
Houston boasts plenty of young talentโa great situation indeed! If they’re aiming high this season though, they’ll want as much Tari Eason action as possible on that court!
