5 Role players the Blazers should target on the trade market
By Reese Kunz
2. Tari Eason
The 23-year-old Tari Eason would be an ideal two-way player for the Blazers, who are in desperate need of a long-term answer at their forward position. Eason was selected No. 17 overall in the 2022 NBA Draft and is turning out to be a gem of a pick for the Rockets. In his second season, Eason averaged 9.8 points, seven rebounds, 1.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.9 blocks on 46/36/64 shooting splits in only 21.8 minutes per game.
While the Blazers certainly could use more shooting, Eason is around league average at 36 percent and should only continue to improve. Despite his average shooting, Eason would be an excellent fit for the Blazers as a defensive-minded forward with a 6-foot-8 frame that fits into their rebuilding timeline.
Given his potential, it may take a lot to get Eason, but the Rockets seem interested in making more moves in an attempt to contend for the playoffs; this could make him more available in exchange for a win-now piece, which the Blazers can offer in Jerami Grant, Malcolm Brogdon, or even Anfernee Simons.
Eason would be a great role player as he can still contribute without needing the ball, complementing Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe well.