Amen Thompson’s Unique Role with the Rockets
Amen Thompson is rapidly carving a niche for himself as one of the NBA’s most distinctive players. While often labeled a point guard, it’s essential to clarify that his role is more nuanced than that. His previous experience at the position during high school and with Overtime Elite doesn’t quite translate to the rigors of the professional game. This season, however, circumstance has nudged the Houston Rockets to experiment with Thompson as a primary ball-handler in the absence of Fred VanVleet, who is currently sidelined due to injury.
Transitioning to Point Guard
Despite this shift, it’s evident that Thompson thrives more as a wing player. His offensive strengths lie in his ability to drive to the basket and excel in cutting or slashing situations. While he possesses commendable court vision, it does not yet reflect the playmaking acumen typical of an NBA-level point guard. His ability to find teammates in transition or during drives is notable, yet he struggles with orchestrating set plays, a critical skill for a starting point guard. Additionally, his shooting, particularly from long range, remains below the expectations for a player in this role. Opposing defenses often invite him to take jump shots, which exposes a significant gap in his game. This is particularly telling for a Rockets team that ranks among the league’s best in three-point shooting at 40.1 percent.
Defensive Prowess and Versatility
However, to dismiss Thompson’s value would be a grave oversight. He is undeniably one of the premier two-way players in the league, regardless of position. Standing at six-foot-seven, he has the physical tools to tower over many opponents, and he approaches defense with a tenacity that few can match. Thompson takes pride in guarding the opposing team’s best scorer, showcasing his commitment to both ends of the floor.
Learning from the Best
In preparation for his new responsibilities, Thompson has dedicated time to studying the gameplay of several renowned point guards, with Rajon Rondo’s influence particularly resonating with him. In a conversation with long-time NBA analyst Marc Spears, he expressed his admiration for Rondo’s impact on games, saying, “I started watching Rondo and was like, ‘Yo, this man is nice.’ I knew he was nice, but I didn’t know he was that nice.” Thompson is drawn to Rondo’s unique ability to control the game despite defensive schemes aimed at limiting his shooting, all while contributing significantly in rebounds and assists.
Alongside Rondo, Thompson has also studied the games of Russell Westbrook, Chris Paul, John Wall, and LeBron James—three of whom have had notable stints with the Rockets. This diverse array of influences indicates Thompson’s desire to expand his skill set and adapt to the demands of an evolving NBA landscape.
As Thompson continues to navigate this uncharted territory, his journey is one to watch, promising to bring a blend of creativity and defensive intensity to the Rockets as they seek to solidify their identity on the court.
