PF: Tari Eason
The Rockets just drafted Eason with the 17th overall pick in 2022. The 6’8 forward showed flashes as a rookie but only played 21.5 minutes per game. There is a ton to like, but he needs time to develop. Eason will be 27 years old in 2028 and near his peak. He becomes a restricted free agent in 2026 and will be two years from unrestricted free agency in 2028, assuming he signs a four-year deal.
Eason could be the perfect complementary piece for any contender. The 6’8 forward can guard multiple positions, space the floor, rebound, make plays, and even get the occasional bucket. His versatility would be fantastic next to Joel Embiid in Philadelphia.
Tari Eason has room to grow. Expect his scoring, rebounding, and playmaking to improve in year two. The 22-year-old is not going to transform into a star, but the 76ers do not need him to. They want a quality role player, and Eason is the perfect fit.
The Sixers have size and switch ability around Tyrese Maxey in their dream scenario. They can hide the 6’2 guard on the opposition’s worst scorer and let their length clean up. Eason shot 34.3 percent from 3-point range as a rookie and should be an above-average floor spacer. Philadelphia has a strong team on both ends of the floor that is anchored by the MVP.