Tari Eason is experiencing a breakout season, particularly with his three-point shooting, marking the highest statistics of his career thus far. Averaging 4.5 attempts per game, Eason’s confidence has significantly increased compared to his previous average of 2.5 attempts during his first three NBA seasons, according to StatMuse. His current shooting percentage of 46.6% showcases an elite level of efficiency, exceeding his past performances by nearly 10%.
Even though it is reasonable to think this percentage may decrease as the season progresses, Eason’s sample size is substantial, having played in 23 games. This indicates that his shooting success isn’t merely a fleeting hot streak. Impressively, despite recent injury setbacks, Eason has been able to maintain his shooting prowess upon his return. In a recent game against Philadelphia, after missing five games due to injury and not attempting any threes against San Antonio, he hit three of seven attempts, showcasing a notable 42.9% success rate.
Eason’s ability to rebound quickly after an injury was also displayed a month earlier in Sacramento, where he returned from a month-long absence to hit all three of his attempts. However, while it’s encouraging that he can perform well post-injury, there’s an underlying concern with his health history. After playing all 82 games in his rookie season, Eason has struggled with injuries, participating in only 102 of Houston’s 207 regular-season games since then. Being available for less than half of those games is a significant challenge for the team.
Given these circumstances, there’s a question forming around whether it might be prudent to consider trading Eason while his value is at a peak. While the chemistry he shares with his teammates, affectionately known as the “Terror Twins,” is strong, the possibility of exploring trade offers shouldn’t be completely dismissed, especially if a team presents a compelling deal. The reality is that his value may not remain steady, and the current situation can potentially evolve negatively.
Eason’s status as a restricted free agent adds complexity to negotiations ahead, especially given various examples from the previous offseason. Notable players such as Deandre Ayton, Jonathan Kuminga, and Cam Thomas faced challenges in their contract situations, highlighting the unpredictability of such negotiations. Rockets fans must brace for potential complications similar to those experienced by others in the league when it comes to Eason’s future.
Despite the challenges, there’s an optimistic note in Eason’s journey; his ability to perform at a high level post-injury indicates resilience and a promising future. As he continues to develop his game, Eason could emerge as a key player for the Rockets if he can overcome his injury woes and maintain his shooting accuracy.