Tuesday’s game in Washington was the 10th straight absence for Rockets forward Tari Eason, who is still dealing with soreness in his lower left leg.

Houston Rockets forward Amen Thompson has shined since his return from suspension, and is making a case to become a permanent starter moving forward.

With Jabari Smith Jr. out with a hand injury, Amen Thompson has a golden opportunity in front of him to cement his place in the Houston Rockets starting lineup — perhaps even for good. Thompson, the fourth overall pick of the 2023 NBA Draft,