Amen Thompson: The Rockets Lottery Pick
Basketball Aficionado Nick Andre takes look into the uber-athletic Amen Thompson and his potential fit with the Youth Movement down in Houston.
After a dramatic 202–23 season, the Houston Rockets have made big changes within the franchise that will help the team move in the right direction. First, they parted ways with Stephen Silas to later hire Ime Udoka to be on the sidelines. With the NBA Draft underway, what direction should the Rockets lean toward? The answer is quite simple in selecting an elite guard in Amen Thompson.
I know people are asking where does Thompson fit in the Rockets’ rotation? Considering the team already consists of two backcourt talents in Jalen Green and Kevin Porter Jr. While that may be true, Thompson is not a player that Houston should pass up on with their fourth pick. As the team continues to gear for the future, the 20-year-old phenomenon can contribute to the Rockets and their future.
Positives
For those who watched Amen Thompson in Overtime Elite, there’s no question that he’s box office talent. He’s a high-flying guard who can make his way to the rim with acrobatic finishes and rim-rattling dunks. Thompson can also dictate the offense with his playmaking, setting up the halfcourt offense and finding teammates on backdoor cuts and on the perimeter. Thompson’s connection with his teammates is unreal. He makes great reads and makes sure to find guys in their spots for easy opportunities.
During the 2022–23 OTE Season, Thompson averaged 16.4 points per game to go with six rebounds and six assists. One stat that stands out is his defensive numbers with 2.3 steals and one block. As an off-ball defender, Thompson improved tremendously in that aspect. Standing at 6’7, his length gives opposing players a difficult time to operate. Thompson’s strong and quick and can make players uncomfortable in a half-court offense. Also, Thompson excels at interrupting passing lanes and allowing his team another possession on offense.
Playing for the Rockets would be a great scenario for Thompson. In today’s NBA, big guards who can run the offense have been a common thing. In recent years, players like Lonzo Ball and Ben Simmons were able to step into the point guard role and display their skillset and athleticism. Udoka could insert Thompson in any lineup and he will allow his teammates to play at their best. He may not be a starter but could play a crucial role down the stretch with his hustle and passing ability.
Area of Concern
The one concern with Amen Thompson heading into the NBA Draft is his lack of shooting. During the season, he shot 23 percent from behind the arc and he doesn’t show a lot of confidence in his perimeter game. In the NBA, spacing the floor is mandatory and guards must be able to make outside shots. Thompson doesn’t have to be Stephen Curry but increasing his shooting percentage from the outside will be crucial in Houston.
Outlook
Amen Thompson isn’t the player that automatically elevates the Rockets as playoff contenders. However, it’s a start in the right direction. With his ability to attack and run the offense, he takes the pressure off the other players and will allow them to play at their best offensively. Just imagine the Rockets on a fastbreak as Thompson throws a lob to Green for an easy finish. Rockets fans will be out of their seats with the lob passes and finishes that Thompson will be able to deliver.
