Houston Rockets assistant coach John Lucas II recently gave rookie Tari Eason a lofty comparison to Dennis Rodman, and the 17th pick looks to have some similarities to the Hall of Famer.
Eason established himself as a tremendous scorer and rebounder in college at LSU. He averaged 16.9 points, 6.6 rebounds, 1.9 steals, 1.1 blocks and one assist, and he had four games with at least 20 points and 10 rebounds. He was a finalist for the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year.
He continued that level of production in the Las Vegas Summer League, averaging 17.2 points, 10.4 rebounds, 1.8 steals, 1.6 assists and one blocked shot. He led all players in rebounding and double-doubles (4) and is again showing off that ability in the preseason.
Through the Rockets’ first three games, Eason is averaging 20.7 points, 10 rebounds, 1.7 steals and one assist. Of his 10 boards per game, Eason is averaging 5.3 on the offensive glass; he has grabbed at least five per game.
He had his second double-double on Monday with 17 points and 12 rebounds.
Rodman is regarded as one of the top rebounders to ever step foot onto the court. He had seemingly an infinite supply of energy and used that to crash the glass, chase loose balls and defend at a high level — all characteristics that Eason has displayed thus far.
The Rockets, as Lucas said, don’t necessarily have to run plays for Eason. He runs the floor hard and can create for himself when needed. The team can count on him to score and rebound, and that is a byproduct of his energy and effort.
The comparison to Rodman may be a bit premature for Eason considering he hasn’t played in an official game, but the 21-year-old will certainly have moments reminiscent of him this season. He could be in store for a strong rookie campaign, as a result.
Houston wraps up its preseason schedule on Friday.
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