Rockets Season Preview: Is Tari Eason A Dark Horse For Sixth Man of the Year?

As he enters his second season with the Houston Rockets, can Tari Eason become one of the league's top sixth men during the 2023-24 season?

HOUSTON — Tari Eason has already made a notable name for himself ahead of his second season with the Houston Rockets.

Eason 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.

He played a vital role in contributing to the Rockets' production off the bench during all 82 games last season. And with expectations rising entering his sophomore campaign, playing under coach Ime Udoka could lead to an expanded role during the 2023-24 season.

The 22-year-old forward is similar to Jae'Sean Tate as a player who meets Udoka's yearnings for toughness, respectability, accountability, and defense. The ideal fit with Udoka could result in Eason taking the helm as the Rockets' most trustworthy sixth man.

The outcome could lead to Eason becoming a dark horse candidate to take home Sixth Man of the Year honors next May.

Eason displayed his potential during the 2023 Las Vegas Summer League Tournament. He helped the Rockets begin their summer league domination by winning their first two games, averaging 23.0 points, 9.5 rebounds, four assists and three blocks.

Newly acquired Dillon Brooks said Eason is the player he most looks forward to working with due to their shared defensive mindset, per The Athletic.

"I can’t wait to work with Tari [Eason]," Brooks said. "I feel like he can be a great player — especially a great defender — and grow his game, his athleticism & everything. I can’t wait to work with him."

Eason entered the league driven by the chip on his shoulders after falling to the No. 17 pick of the 2022 NBA Draft. The modest success he experienced during his rookie year has not changed Eason's mentality as a sophomore sensation.