Both are due up for extensions soon.
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We all know the Rockets are likely going to have some decisions to make coming up. One of them potentially involves their two-headed monster at power forward — Tari Eason and Jabari Smith Jr.
Both players are in their rookie deals, so they are in the last club options years coming up in the 2025-2026 NBA season. Eason will be making $5.6 million, while Smith is scheduled to make $12.3 million.
Neither player is perfect. Smith probably has the higher ceiling — 3rd overall pick and all — while Eason is probably the more dynamic player. Both play good defense, though they play it differently — Smith with smart, consistent, heady play and Eason with creating chaos — and both players need to work on their offense, in particular their shooting, though again, Smith likely has the higher potential ceiling here. Eason really needs to stay healthy, while Smith lost his starting job to injury this past season too and never gained it back.
Their are pluses and minues to both. And while it’s possible Houston retains both, it’s also possible they might have to make a decision. If you’re the GM, and you find yourself in a place this season where you have to commit to one or the other, which one are you taking?
Cast your vote and we’ll be back soon with the results.