Tari Eason out 4-6 weeks with oblique injury

After Houston Rockets All-Star Kevin Durant scored 30 points in a 140-116 win against the Portland Blazers, the team received some disappointing news regarding the forward Tara Easonoblique injury. Eason is out for four to six weeks.

Rockets head coach Ime Udoka published the timetable for Eason’s return on Saturday, according to Rockets sideline reporter Vanessa Richardson.

“Tary Eason has a tight hamstring and will be out for 4-6 weeks, according to coach Ima Udoki.

Eason scored three points in 11 minutes before going down with the injury in Friday’s win over the Blazers. He was a spark off the bench for the Rockets averaging 11.5 points on 49.5% shooting, including a blistering 50.9% from deep and 5.2 rebounds per game.

The Rockets’ Tari Eason had a game-high 22 points, five rebounds and five assists in a 137-109 win against the Brooklyn Nets earlier this season, as Udoka and the Rockets will have to fill the void left by his absence amid Houston’s impressive 8-3 run. Friday’s win marks the Rockets’ eighth in nine games.

Durant connected on 12 of 19 attempts, including 3-for-6 from deep, en route to his fourth 30+ point game of the regular season. He averaged 25.1 points on 50.5% shooting, including 42.6% from deep, 4.6 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.1 steals per game in his first season with the Rockets.

Kevin Durant on reuniting with his new Rockets teammate

All-Star Kevin Durant recognized a familiar face on the Rocketswhich he says helped give the team a historic start. Durant played alongside Rockets center Steven Adams when they were with the Thunder.

After joining the Rockets, Durant admits he’s happy to be on the same team as Adams, he said, and says the veteran center still has a lot to offer.

“I don’t believe he’s aged that much,” Durant said. “He still plays across the frame like he did when he was young. He’s still physical on the offensive glass, sets great screens, runs to screens, gets down low in pick and roll presentations like a big. Yeah, he’s probably learned the tricks of the trade to be a pro in the NBA and how to practice, how to get into games every day.

“But in terms of his talent, his skill level, it still reminds me of the young Steven 10 years ago. And, you know, it’s a testament to his hard work and his dedication. And he’s been through some injuries as well. So how you come back from that shows your mental makeup as a player. So I’m grateful to be back with Steven.”

Perhaps Eason’s injury opens the door to extended playing time for Adams.