Houston Rockets' Tari Eason Reveals Injury Update; Return Soon?
HOUSTON — Tari Eason has never dealt with a significant injury until an exhibition game against the Indiana Pacers on Oct. 10. Jalen Smith rolled on Eason's leg during the Rockets' 122-103 preseason victory inside the Toyota Center.
The incident caused a "stress reaction" in Eason's left leg that began to flare up following his appearance against the New Orleans Pelicans two nights later. He has since missed the previous seven games, which included the first four games of the 2023-24 regular season.
"I am looking to get back out on the court soon," Eason said. "Regardless of this injury, it's an opportunity for good things to come out of it."
Rockets forward Tari Eason scores inside against Sacramento Kings guard De'Aaron Fox (5) during the fourth quarter at Toyota Center.
Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports
Eason's rehab is going well. Over the last few days, he has started some on-court basketball activities to begin the ramp-up period. But despite the progress, coach Ime Udoka noted that Eason's return will stay within the original timetable of two to three weeks.
The Rockets miss Eason's production but will remain cautious about his injury. Udoka revealed that the team misses Eason's grit, toughness and physicality, three noteworthy attributes that have played into Houston's 1-3 start.
While sidelined, Eason has taken mental notes while observing the game from afar. His studies have coincided with Udoka's analyses.
"I think I can help us from a rebounding standpoint," Eason said. "Helping this team play a little faster while helping the second unit...There are certain things like knowing when to pick your spots. You have a chance to pick up what you do not see on the court. I'm just trying to be a student of the game."
Eason was one of 10 players who played all 82 games during the 2022-23 season. He finished his rookie year averaging 9.3 points and 6.0 rebounds in 21.5 minutes, which led to him joining Jabari Smith Jr. as one of five players named to the NBA's All-Rookie Second Team selection.
His name is already in the company of a pair of all-time greats when he became the third rookie to tally 80 or more steals and 40 or more blocks since the 1980-81 season — joining James Worthy and Scottie Pippen.
Eason has relied upon the book, "Chop Wood Carry Water: How to Fall in Love with the Process of Becoming Great,” by Joshua Medcalf, to help with the mental aspect of his recovery.
As a player who has not missed many games since college, the injury has been challenging for Eason. His emotions are similar to the injury-plagued year Jae'Sean Tate had last season, where an ongoing ankle injury limited him to 31 games.
"Tari is a guy who doesn't miss a lot of games," Tate said. "Throughout his career, I don't think he has missed any. This is a time for you to focus on what you can control. It's a long season. We are only four games in. We miss him out there. His impact will be needed whenever we get him back."
Eason is anxious to return to the lineup but understands he cannot rush his recovery. There is no timetable for Eason's return, but he expects to be back on the court "soon. Very soon."
