The Houston Rockets have a problem. Luckily for them, that’s a good thing.

Houston is loaded with wings who can make an impact on all sides of the ball, but there are only so many minutes left to go. But when you have a guy like Tari Eason coming off the bench and maximizing every second he played on the court, you have to find ways to get him involved.

Eason missed much of last season with a lower leg injury, and his presence was missed. But through four games during the 2024-25 regular season, he’s made a significant impact on the Rockets at a time when they desperately need someone coming off the bench.

The longtime forward is averaging a modest 6.8 points and 3.5 rebounds on the season, but most of what he brings to Houston doesn’t show up on the stat sheet.

Eason’s defensive IQ has allowed this team to pick itself up when its offense is struggling. In back-to-back matchups against the San Antonio Spurs, he was forced to turn to much bigger opponents in centers Zach Collins and Victor Wembenyama.

Despite being the smaller defender, Eason uses his sturdy frame to isolate big men in the post, forcing them to throw harder shots. When he’s able to keep opposing centers in front of him rather than allowing them to pass over him, he can use his 7-foot-2 wingspan to reach and knock away a pass.

Eason’s ability to guard the post allowed the Rockets to play smaller lineups, play at a higher tempo and expand the floor on the other end.

The long forward also made an impact on the perimeter, making him very flexible in Houston’s rotations.

Eason always has his eyes on the ball, no matter where he is on the court. His decision-making on when to attack the ball forced many turnovers and gave the Rockets many fast break opportunities early in the season. His unique size, build, and athleticism, coupled with his improved defensive IQ, made him a defensive threat and a nightmare to play against.

This setting also led to some issues on the other end of the floor for defenses.

Eason showed impressive skill at finding the basketball. As mentioned earlier, the young striker always watches the ball. Every time a shot is launched, he looks to get in position to grab a board, giving the Rockets plenty of second-chance opportunities.

No matter where he is on the field when Eason is in the game, he makes plays. Unfortunately for him, there is a lot of competition at his position on this list.

Jabari Smith Jr. has had his ups and downs this season, but is still active on the defensive end. Dillon Brooks has also been a reliable 3-and-D player for Houston. Cam Whitmore has been the team’s spark plug off the bench at times.

As long as Eason continues to perform like he did over the first four games, his minutes should increase as the season goes on.

The Rockets have a surplus of talent at the forward position. It’s safe to say that in Houston you have a problem, but it’s a wonderful problem.

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