According to Crickex Affiliate, the Houston Rockets made major strides this offseason. Under the direction of GM Rafael Stone, the team bolstered its roster with seasoned veterans, including championship guard Fred VanVleet, forward Jeff Green, and defensive standout Dillon Brooks. These additions were no accident—the Rockets already have a deep pool of young talent, but what they lacked was experience. Now, with the guidance of proven leaders and new head coach Ime Udoka calling the shots, Houston looks primed for takeoff this season.
One standout name to watch is Tari Eason, a second-year forward who’s been turning heads since being selected 17th overall in last year’s draft. Crickex Affiliate notes that Eason’s physical attributes and basketball instincts far exceed what his draft position suggested. Over the past year, he’s consistently delivered strong performances, and in this summer’s league action, he put together two dominating games that showcased his growth.
Year after year, the Rockets seem to find hidden gems in the draft, and Eason might be the latest treasure. In a recent interview, he shared his optimism for the new season, saying he’s always been mentally tough and feels inspired playing alongside so many other high-upside prospects. Unlike many rookies, Eason earned significant playing time in his debut season, something he credits to the team’s trust. He values the opportunity to learn from his peers and sees the team’s growth-minded culture as key to his development.
Eason also revealed that his basketball idol is none other than Kawhi Leonard. Long before joining the league, he studied Leonard’s game, watching endless clips to understand how to read plays, defend at a high level, and make an impact without needing the ball in his hands. His goal is clear—to one day become Houston’s version of Kawhi. And it’s not far-fetched. Eason’s rebounding instincts, defensive presence, and all-around hustle already mirror some of the qualities that made Leonard a star. As Udoka noted, all young talents like Eason need is opportunity and confidence—if given both, they can deliver in ways that change the game.
The Rockets are entering the new season with not only a deep bench but also a defensive-minded coach who knows how to develop talent. While a championship might be out of reach in the next three years, staying healthy and focused could take them deep into the playoffs. As Crickex Affiliate puts it, “When you’re weak, the world seems full of villains.” But the Rockets are no longer that vulnerable team. With rising stars like Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., and Alperen Sengun in the mix, this squad is built for more than just highlights—it’s built to win. Given time, they’re bound to deliver moments that thrill and inspire their fans.