Amen Thompson’s Shooting Struggles Fuel Concerns as Houston’s Playoff Aspirations Dwindle
Amen Thompson entered the current season with the weight of high expectations on his shoulders, poised to elevate his game into that of a star. Such aspirations were not unfounded. After two seasons marked by impressive growth, Thompson’s trajectory seemed to signal a bright future. The arrival of Kevin Durant only added to the optimism; his presence not only eases the burden on Thompson but also draws defensive attention, allowing other players more room to operate.
Unexpected Role Change
However, as the season approached, an unforeseen twist altered Thompson’s trajectory. When Fred VanVleet suffered an injury, Thompson was abruptly thrust into a role he hadn’t prepared for, one that demanded immediate adaptation. He became Houston’s makeshift point guard, a position that shifted his offensive responsibilities dramatically. This change left little time for adjustment, particularly in terms of playmaking and shooting.
In this new role, Thompson has been expected to facilitate the offense, yet he has increasingly leaned on jump shots—an area where his performance has raised eyebrows. This trend plays directly into the hands of opposing defenses, as jump shots, particularly from a young player, can often be low-percentage attempts.
Concerning Shooting Metrics
The numbers tell a troubling story. According to statistical analysis, among 174 players who have taken at least 100 jump shots this season, Amen Thompson ranks dead last with a dismal 26% effective field goal percentage on those attempts. His struggles are not isolated; teammate Alperen Sengun also finds himself in a precarious position, ranking 163rd at 42%. While new superstar Kevin Durant leads the team in scoring, the long-term playoff prospects for Houston may hinge on the development of Thompson and Sengun, a duo that represents the future of the franchise.
Despite both players showing signs of improvement—Sengun is on the verge of earning his second All-Star nod—they continue to grapple with scoring from beyond the paint. This limitation poses a significant challenge, especially as the Rockets navigate crucial moments in games.
Playoff Implications and Offensive Strategy
The current offensive strategy for Houston has revolved around capitalizing on the offensive glass and converting second-chance opportunities into points, whether through close-range efforts or open three-point shots. These high-percentage plays have been a cornerstone of their approach. However, as the games intensify and the stakes rise, the Rockets might find themselves in precarious situations. Opponents are likely to double-team Kevin Durant, forcing other players to step up and make critical shots.
As the playoffs loom on the horizon, the question arises: can Thompson and Sengun develop their shooting to alleviate these concerns? The path to playoff success for Houston may very well depend on it, making the evolution of these young players all the more crucial in the weeks ahead.
