Houston Rockets bank on Amen Thompson’s growth amid Fred VanVleet’s injury setback
The Houston Rockets kicked off their season with a glaring need for a lead ball handler, a necessity magnified by the injury to Fred VanVleet. Despite the promising offensive firepower from players like Alperen Sengun and Kevin Porter Jr., the Rockets understood that a solid orchestrator was essential for unlocking the team’s full offensive potential.
Thompson and Sheppard step up
In response, Houston has turned to Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard, giving both players increased responsibilities as facilitators. While both are gradually becoming more comfortable in off-ball roles, the team recognizes there remains significant room for development in their on-ball skills. Sheppard may be inching closer to the level Houston needs from a primary ball handler, but the Rockets are committed to nurturing Thompson’s growth as a cornerstone of their development strategy.
Amen Thompson’s evolving game
Thompson’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Though the process has been uneven at times, he has shown flashes of promise worth building upon. Known for his elite ability to run the floor and slash off the ball, he thrives when the offense is initiated by a teammate. His speed and decision-making in transition often lead to scoring opportunities, as he can effectively capitalize on fast breaks.
However, Thompson’s struggles are most evident when he’s tasked with creating his own shot in the half court. He faces difficulties in navigating space, whether that’s finding openings in the defense or making effective decisions once he reaches the paint. His most significant threat emerges when he sprints to the rim from the perimeter, forcing defenders to focus on cutting off his driving lanes. Unfortunately, his effectiveness diminishes beyond layup territory, as defenses have started to exploit his shooting limitations.
A work in progress
Another hurdle for Thompson is his inconsistent ball-handling, which sometimes exceeds his current capabilities. While he occasionally dazzles with effective moves, he has yet to string together a full game of reliable decision-making and control with the ball in his hands. Nevertheless, concerns about whether the Rockets can succeed with Thompson as a primary lead guard may be overstated.
The team has remained competitive against some of the league’s top squads, and Head Coach Ime Udoka has been creative in experimenting with Thompson’s usage while maintaining a winning record. Contributions from players like Jabari Smith Jr. and Aaron Holiday have helped alleviate some of the pressures associated with depending heavily on Thompson’s production.
Embracing the development journey
The Rockets find themselves in a favorable position, allowing Thompson to hone his skills while still achieving success on the court. Even if he never fully develops into a legitimate lead ball handler, the experiences he gains this season are invaluable. This development journey is pushing him to become a more versatile offensive player, which could ultimately benefit the Rockets in the long run.
