05/02/2026, 8:07 PM
Struggles with shot in Game 6
Eason had trouble finding the bottom of the net in Game 6, although, to be fair, it was a common theme for the other members of the starting lineup as well. With Houston eliminated from postseason play, the 24-year-old will now turn his attention toward restricted free agency. Eason averaged 10.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.5 blocks and 1.2 steals across 25.8 minutes per game during the 2025-26 campaign. However, he logged only 60 games. With 139 appearances combined in the last three seasons, Eason will need to prove he can stay healthy. While the 2022 No. 17 overall pick should continue to hold a stable role in the rotation with the Rockets, assuming he re-signs, the lack of consistency is something fantasy managers will need to consider moving ahead.
05/02/2026, 7:30 PM
Struggles offensively in Game 6
Smith finished with 22 points in Game 5. However, the 22-year-old had trouble getting anything going Friday night and was unable to help his team force a Game 7. Overall, Smith had a productive season, averaging a career-best 15.8 points with 6.9 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 0.9 blocks and 0.7 steals while shooting 44.9 percent from the field and 36.3 percent from deep across 35.1 minutes per contest. He also appeared in 77 games, his second-highest mark since entering the league in 2022. Smith, who agreed to a five-year, $122 million extension in Oct. 2025, will likely continue to hold a stable role as a starter for the Rockets moving ahead. Although he isn't the most consistent offensively, his durability and defensive prowess should continue to benefit the team during the 2026-27 campaign and beyond, assuming he remains on the roster.
05/02/2026, 2:28 PM
Struggles in Game 6 defeat
Sheppard struggled offensively during Friday's loss and only reached the double-digit points mark because of his shooting volume. He finished the series having averaged 12.2 points on just 30.7 percent shooting (including 29.6 percent from three on 9.0 3PA/G) along with 4.7 assists, 1.0 rebounds, 2.2 steals and 0.8 blocks over 32.2 minutes per contest. Sheppard saw his playing time increase shortly before and during the playoffs, but his role with the Rockets for the 2026-27 season could shrink due to the return of Fred VanVleet (knee).
