The Houston Rockets and forward Tari Eason did not reach an agreement on a rookie-scale contract extension before Monday’s deadline, according to Shams Charania. Eason will become a restricted free agent in the 2026 offseason.
Negotiations reportedly stalled over multiple factors, leaving both sides unable to bridge the gap before the extension window closed.
The 24-year-old is entering the final season of his four-year, $16.3 million rookie contract signed after being drafted 17th overall in 2022.
Eason has been a steady contributor since arriving in Houston, known for his defensive energy and rebounding. Last season, he appeared in 56 games—starting 16—and averaged 12.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.7 steals in 25 minutes per game while shooting 48.9% from the field.
In the 2025 playoffs, he provided valuable minutes off the bench, averaging 7.6 points and 4.3 rebounds in seven games while maintaining efficient shooting splits.
Over his three-year career, Eason holds averages of 10.3 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game. His defensive versatility and improved offensive consistency made him a key rotation piece under head coach Ime Udoka.
Financially, Houston’s decision aligns with its tight cap situation. The Rockets enter the 2025–26 season with a total payroll of $201.3 million, sitting approximately $6.8 million over the luxury tax threshold, per Spotrac. While the organization remains below the first apron, any long-term deal for Eason would have increased future cap pressure.
General manager Rafael Stone and the front office have already committed significant salary to veteran stars Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun, and Fred VanVleet, whose contracts account for over 70% of the team’s total cap figure.
Eason’s upcoming restricted free agency ensures Houston will still have control over his future, giving them the right to match any offer he receives next summer. However, if his production continues to rise, the cost to retain him could climb considerably.
