The Houston Rockets must start thinking about Kevin Durant and his future, but they want to sort out the future of another young man before that.
The Houston Rockets have done a lot of work on the roster this offseason, but there have probably been no more significant acquisitions than the Kevin Durant acquisition.
The Rockets traded Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns in June, adding their first option for the elite to their team after winning 52 games last season.
However, Durant is in the final year of his contract. The two are in talks over the New Deal, and Durant appears to be open to receiving a $22 million salary cut to stay on the Rocket.
But before signing that deal, the Rockets want to secure a future for another young star. Because he is also in the final year of his contract.
According to Jake Fisher, the Houston Rockets hope to extend Tali Eason’s contract before negotiating with Kevin Durant.
The Rockets had to negotiate with Eason until October 20th, and he managed to get a four-year contract in the process. Knowing how much they owe will help them negotiate with Durant.
“I’ve heard likewise prefer the Rockets to secure an extension with Tali Eason before completing the widely anticipated two-year agreement with Kevin Durant.
“If Durant’s deal was made first, that’s not a real issue. After turning 37 on September 29th, Durant can only sign two more seasons, following the league’s 38 and older rules.
“But keep in mind that if you can hash out the extension, Eason is likely likely to win a four-year contract…
“Houston will know exactly what the book will look like with the extended Eason before Durant himself makes a two-year deal that he announced he hopes he will land on Monday.”
The Houston Rockets front office isn’t the only one that appreciates Tali Eason. New arrival Josh O’Cookie has been awarded the sixth Man Award for next season in favor of Eason.
And a few days ago, Kevin Durant blew up ESPN by snubbing Tali Eason from the top 100 player list. Durant praised Eason for being a professional and said he was a real player.
“Tali is one of the players you really have to sit there and watch. People from the real basketball circle, those who value the game and understand the game, know what he brings to the table.”
Last season, Eason came off the bench and delivered 12.0 points, 6.4 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game. If his numbers jump this season, he can really be a nominee for the award.
The Rockets are looking to build a long-term candidate with H-Town, so hopefully they will try to secure a new contract with Eason in the coming weeks.