TITLE: Rockets Likely to Tackle Tari Eason Extension Before Wrapping Up Kevin Durant Deal
SLUG: rockets-likely-to-tackle-tari-eason-extension-before-kevin-durant-deal
CONTENT:
Houston, TX — The Houston Rockets are expected to negotiate a long-term contract with forward Tari Eason before completing an extension for future Hall of Famer Kevin Durant, according to The Athletic’s William Guillory.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst recently reported that Durant and Houston remain on track to strike an agreement “at some point,” but multiple league sources believe Eason’s new deal will get priority in the front office.
Eason’s Contract Situation
The Rockets exercised a $5.68 million club option on Eason’s rookie contract for the 2025-26 season, leaving the 24-year-old on an expiring deal. Last year he averaged a career-best 12.0 points and 1.7 steals over 57 games.
Udoka Faces Minutes Crunch
Guillory added that head coach Ime Udoka may struggle to distribute playing time on a roster he describes as “possibly too deep for its own good.” Houston has several rotation-level players vying for major roles on a team with playoff aspirations.
Boxing Trainer Becomes Key Staff Member
Mark Owens, a well-known boxing trainer from the Houston area, has become an integral part of the club’s conditioning program. Team director of performance Willie Cruz calls Owens “an extension of our strength coaches.” As profiled by the Houston Chronicle, Owens turned his life around after serving a federal prison sentence and now helps Houston maintain one of the NBA’s most physical identities.
Korkmaz Praises Şengün During EuroBasket
Former 76ers wing Furkan Korkmaz is teaming with Rockets center Alperen Şengün on Turkey’s EuroBasket squad. In a video posted by Eurohoops Turkey, Korkmaz labeled Şengün—not reigning MVP Joel Embiid—the best center he has played alongside, calling the 23-year-old “a special kid” who gives maximum effort every day.
The Rockets open training camp later this month, with front-office negotiations—and a crowded rotation—among the major storylines.
Source: HoopsRumors
