Southwest Roundup: Eason’s Return Boosts Rockets, Fox Day-to-Day, Bey Thriving in New Orleans, Flagg Runs Point for Mavs
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Houston, TX — Forward Tari Eason rejoined the Rockets after a 14-game absence and immediately entered the starting lineup, replacing Josh Okogie. In back-to-back victories over the Lakers and Cavaliers, the second-year wing collected six steals, three blocks and went 3-for-8 from deep. “It was amazing to be out there,” Eason said. “We had to get back to being dogs defensively, and I knew I could come out there and set the tone.” Asked whether starting matters to him after two seasons as a reserve, he replied, “Yes, I do.”
San Antonio, TX — Spurs guard De’Aaron Fox sat out Saturday’s game against the Jazz with left adductor tightness. Head coach Mitch Johnson called the issue “real” but expressed optimism it will be short-term. San Antonio is 17-5 when Fox plays this season. Johnson started Julian Champagnie over Dylan Harper to keep Harper’s role consistent, noting that players “are creatures of habit from when they wake up to when they go to bed.”
New Orleans, LA — Saddiq Bey, acquired from the Wizards during the offseason after missing all of 2024-25 while recovering from a torn ACL, has carved out a key role with the Pelicans. The forward is averaging 14.7 points, 5.9 rebounds and 2.2 assists while starting 24 of 32 games. “Just to be wanted at that time after not playing in a year and a half meant a lot to me,” Bey said. Head coach James Borrego called Bey “incredible all year” and praised his willingness to embrace big moments.
Dallas, TX — With Anthony Davis sidelined, Mavericks coach Jason Kidd revisited an early-season tactic, deploying rookie Cooper Flagg as a de facto point guard in a 113-107 loss to the Kings. Flagg overcame a slow start to finish with 23 points, six rebounds and five assists, though he also committed five turnovers. “The change gave us an opportunity to get back in the game,” Kidd said after Dallas trimmed an 18-point deficit in the second half.
Source: HoopsRumors
