As restricted free agency looms, Rockets expected to retain Tari Eason

After a second straight disappointing playoff exit , the Houston Rockets could have changes on the horizon during the NBA’s 2026 offseason. But it appears that any changes are unlikely to include Tari Eason, who is set to enter restricted free agency following his fourth NBA season. Kelly Iko of Yahoo!

Sports writes : Eason will be a restricted free agent this offseason, but Houston plans to re-engage in conversations around a long-term deal following the conclusion of the Finals, team sources said, in hopes of striking an agreement ahead of July 1. In the event that both parties fail to reach a common middle ground — there’s an understanding the 24-year-old could change management ahead of a pivotal summer — and Eason signs an offer sheet elsewhere, Houston, which still values his two-way contributions, would be expected to match. After Friday’s season-ending loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, Eason admitted to thinking about his contractual status.

“It’s tough to say I didn’t think about it,” Eason told reporters . “You definitely think about it. I was drafted here.

I’ve grown up here. My family is here. I love Houston.