Reports say the Rockets have offered Eason over $100 million! Is the issue related to the guaranteed amount? It might be similar to Zion's contract.

On October 22nd Beijing time, according to renowned reporter Wojnarowski, Eason and the Rockets did not finalize a contract extension before the deadline, but both parties are interested in renewing. The sticking point might be the injury guarantee amount in the deal.

“From what I understand, they presented Eason with a lucrative offer,” Wojnarowski mentioned, “over $100 million, but I’m unsure about the guaranteed portion.”

Eason played 82 games in his rookie season, but only appeared in 22 games during the 2023-24 season and 57 games in 2024-25. Last season, he averaged 24.9 minutes per game, scoring 12.0 points, grabbing 6.4 rebounds, dishing 1.5 assists, and making 1.7 steals. Eason will become a restricted free agent in 2026, with agents Thaddeus Foucher and Chafi Fields representing him.

Including injury-related clauses in contracts is not unprecedented. The most notable example might be Pelicans star Zion’s current deal. His 5-year, $197 million contract is closely tied to his weight, attendance, and injury status.

Reportedly, Zion’s contract details are as follows—

Salary guarantee terms: In Zion’s 5-year, $197 million deal with the Pelicans, the $39.44 million salary for the 2025-26 season became fully guaranteed on July 16, 2025. However, the $42.17 million for 2026-27 and $44.89 million for 2027-28 remain non-guaranteed for now. The contract stipulates that the guarantee activates based on a July 15 “deadline” each season. For example, if the Pelicans do not waive Zion before July 15, 2026, his 2026-27 salary will become fully guaranteed.

Weight management clause: Zion must pass all six weight checkpoints during the season to secure 20% of the next season’s salary guarantee. The combined weight and body fat percentage must be under 295—for instance, if Zion weighs 285 pounds, his body fat cannot exceed 10%.

Attendance clause: Zion must participate in at least 41, 51, and 61 games respectively to earn an additional 40%, 20%, and 20% of the next season’s guaranteed salary.

Specific injury risk clause: If Zion suffers a fracture or stress injury to his right fifth metatarsal, or other specified old injuries listed in the contract, half of his salary will be non-guaranteed if the team waives him.

Referring to Zion’s contract terms, although Eason has been offered over $100 million by the Rockets, the strict injury-related conditions may have prevented an agreement. Considering Eason’s limited attendance over the past two seasons, he might not accept such a contract to protect his own interests.