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The Sixers could target Tari Eason

With the 2026 NBA Playoffs going in the rearview for the Houston Rockets, the veteran forward Tari Eason has a big question mark on his future.

For the first time in his career, the former first-round pick is set to become a free agent.

It’s still early–as the playoff loss against the Los Angeles Lakers is still fresh–but Eason got honest on his mindset heading into the offseason.

“It’s tough to say I didn’t think about it,” Eason told reporters when asked about it.

“You definitely think about it. I was drafted here. I’ve grown up here. My family is here. I love Houston. As far as everything else, God knows.”

Tari Eason Will Be A Top Name

HOUSTON, TEXAS – APRIL 24: Head coach Ime Udoka of the Houston Rockets speaks with Tari Eason #17 during the first quarter of the game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center on April 24, 2026 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kenneth Richmond/Getty Images)

When it comes to restricted free agents, Tari Eason will be a top name to watch.

Since Eason was in the final year of his rookie contract, he was a trade candidate to keep an eye on before the February deadline popped up.

Clearly, the Rockets kept him on board.

The 24-year-old Eason joined the Rockets after a run at LSU. With the Tigers, the forward played in 33 games, with just four starts. Seeing the court for 24.4 minutes per game, Eason shot 52.1% from the field and 35.9% from three.

GettyHOUSTON, TEXAS – OCTOBER 27: Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets interact acts with Reed Sheppard #15 and Josh Okogie #20 of the Houston Rockets during a timeout in the second half of the game against the Brooklyn Nets at Toyota Center on October 27, 2025 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Kenneth Richmond/Getty Images)

Eason had averages of 16.9 points, 6.6 rebounds, 1.9 steals, and 1.1 blocks throughout his second college season. When he entered the NBA Draft in 2022, Eason was selected 17th overall.

Over his four-year career in the NBA, Eason played in over 220 games. Eason posted averages of 10.4 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.2 steals.

GettySAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – MAY 02: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors dribbles Tari Eason #17 of the Houston Rockets during the second quarter in Game Six of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Chase Center on May 02, 2025 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

The rookie contract for Eason was for $16.25 million over four seasons. He is anticipating a hefty increase in pay with or without the Rockets. While Eason sounds more than interested in returning to Houston, it’s not a concrete move.

Eason will want his big payday, rightfully so. The Rockets will have an opportunity to match any offer that comes his way.