According to TA basketball reporter Kelly Iko on Friday, the Houston Rockets and Tari Eason have always maintained good communication on the issue of contract renewal.

"Regarding Eason's contract renewal, both parties have maintained active communication and hope to reach an agreement as soon as possible," Iko said. "The Rockets' current salary cap space is infinitely close to the top of the rich line. Finalizing Eason's contract will help them plan their future financial arrangements more clearly and avoid possible embarrassing situations."

He added: "Those within the team hope to complete the contract extension as soon as possible, but also understand that negotiations may be delayed until the start of the 2025/26 season."

However, Iko did not rule out another possibility: "If no agreement on a contract extension can be reached, the Rockets may also renegotiate with Iko, who will become a restricted free agent next summer. However, the Rockets do not want this to become a long-term problem or interference."

Ethan, 24, plays primarily as a forward and was selected by the Rockets with the 17th pick in the first round of the 2022 NBA Draft. Since joining the Rockets, he has averaged 10.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.4 steals in 161 regular season games, with a shooting percentage of 46.6% and a three-point shooting percentage of 34.5%.

Ethan also played in seven playoff games for the Rockets, averaging 7.6 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.0 blocks and 1.1 steals per game, with a shooting percentage of 47.7% and a three-point shooting percentage of 36.8%.