Intending to retire with the Houston Rockets, Kevin Durant made the decision of a ‘big bother’. He left $30 million on the table, enabling the Rockets to navigate the future of their promising young nucleus. KD signed a two-year $90 million deal, giving them flexibility and, mainly, an open path to achieve a competitive roster for the next few seasons.

It helped them avoid what the Warriors faced throughout the summer with Jonathan Kuminga. The name just changes to Tari Eason, the Rockets’ 2022 first-round pick. Had Durant taken the larger max extension, it would have significantly reduced Houston’s payroll flexibility and could have limited what the team could do under the luxury-tax aprons. That would mean their 6’8” wing would head towards restricted free agency. This summer proved how troublesome that power struggle could be.

But Durant freed the Rockets from their clutches. “Houston has enough space below the first apron to squeeze in one more crucial extension before the start of the regular season. The Rockets have been in talks with 24-year-old Tari Eason on a new extension that will secure the long-term future of another homegrown talent that fits perfectly with the franchise’s rugged, defensive-minded identity,” The Athletic’s William Guillory explained.

In Kuminga’s case, the Warriors didn’t have financial room to meet their young forward’s demands. While they did agree on a deal, the Warriors had to hold off on making any other moves before settling the drama with JK. Eason would have the same leverage, and probably vast interest from around the NBA. But KD stepped up to make the big play.

In his twilight years, Kevin Durant made a decision that will help him stay in the competitive limelight until the end of his career. Furthermore, Eason is integral to the Rockets’ system. His size allows them to have various iterations of their ‘jumbo’ lineup. Furthermore, Eason is everything Ime Udoka would want from his wing.

Tari Eason is integral to the Rockets’ future

The 24-year-old is disruptive, averaging 1.7 steals in just under 25 minutes per game last season. His 6’8” frame and defensive awareness allow him to seamlessly switch and guard any position. Moreover, he can shoot the ball with efficiency, providing the Rockets with an elite two-way player. Reports suggest the Rockets will move before the deadline to finalize an extension with Eason.

This season could also be the first time he sees more time on the floor. With Fred VanVleet out for the season, one rotation spot is left empty. In limited time, Eason produced 12 points per game, and recorded a positive 2.5 net differential. The only concern will be his health. Tari Eason has missed significant time managing a leg injury since his second season.

But there’s no doubt his potential is high. With the composition of the Rockets, Eason’s scrappy nature cements their identity.

Kevin Durant, a basketball savant understood how important he will be to making the Rocket title contenders. “Tari is one of those players you’ve got to sit there and watch to truly appreciate what he brings to the table. People in real basketball circles that value the game and understand the game, they know what he brings to the table. I think he’s going to have a great year,” he said about Eason.

Tari Eason is just one of the youngsters primed to have a great season. Jabari Smith Jr., Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard will also have the chance to shine. The Rockets have extended their window by getting Durant’s sacrifice. But even now, they are aiming for the top.