<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/rockets-case-amen-thompson-earning-1st-team-all-rookie-honors');   ga('set', 'title', 'The case for Rockets’ Amen Thompson earning 1st team All-Rookie honors');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Rockets-The-case-for-Amen-Thompson-earning-1st-team-All-Rookie-honors.jpg"><figcaption>4/16/24</figcaption></figure><h1>The case for Rockets’ Amen Thompson earning 1st team All-Rookie honors</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2024-04-16T15:53:38-07:00">April 16th, 3:53pm</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2024-04-16T15:54:54-07:00">April 16th, 3:54pm</time><address><a>Jeremy Gretzer</a>Jeremy Gretzer joins ClutchPoints with a unique blend of experience in both the performing arts and sports journalism. A Houston native, Jeremy is happy to receive the opportunity as a beat reporter for ClutchPoints covering the Rockets. During his tenure at Back Sports Page, he honed his skills in sports writing, social media, and reporting, gaining valuable experience and having the opportunity to interact with notable figures from the NBA during media day, various charities, and pro camps events. His approach is analytical yet accessible, ensuring dedicated fans and casual readers alike can appreciate his insights.</address><h3 class="op-kicker">Mini-Editorials</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>The 2023-2024 NBA regular season has concluded, paving the way for the playoffs. During this period, NBA awards will be distributed throughout the postseason. For the Houston Rockets, this opens up contention for the NBA <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/thunder-news-chet-holmgren-rookie-of-the-year-victor-wembanyama">Rookie of the Year</a> and All-Rookie Team honors. Most casual and avid pro basketball fans will agree that Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs, Chet Holmgren of the Oklahoma City Thunder, and Brandon Miller of the Charlotte Hornets are the top candidates for Rookie of the Year. While we’re at it, let’s go ahead and check them off on the All-Rookie First Team. With two slots left, here is why Rockets guard Amen Thompson should take one of them.</p><h2><b>Why Amen Thompson deserves All-Rookie slot</b></h2><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Houston-Rockets-forward-Amen-Thompson.jpg"><figcaption>Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption></figure><p>First off, <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/rockets-news-amen-thompson-cam-whitmore-nba-rising-stars">Thompson was snubbed</a> from the Rising Stars roster during the All-Star game. Getting Rookie First Team honors would be quite a comeback. Overall, he’s been fantastic in his first season. Even though he missed a bit over a month, Thompson supremely recovered. In 62 games, the 21-year-old averaged 9.5 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 2.6 assists on 53.6% shooting. Thanks to the brief injuries of Dillon Brooks and Fred VanVleet, Thompson earned lengthy starting minutes, raising his averages to a double-double, notching 13.3 points, ten rebounds, and 3.5 assists as a starter in 23 games.</p><p>Don’t forget his two-way potential. Via Cleaning the Glass, <a href="https://cleaningtheglass.com/stats/player/5216/onoff#tab-team_efficiency" rel="noopener">Thompson ranked</a> in the 100th percentile on Offensive and Defensive rebounding percentage, 96th on steal percentage, and 93rd on block percentage.</p><h2><b>Thompson’s first career triple-double</b></h2><p>In the final game of the season, the former Overtime Elite guard secured his first career triple-double against the LA Clippers, with 18 points on 8-of-9 shooting, eleven rebounds, and ten assists, including three steals and three blocks.</p><p>“He [Thompson] continues to take steps every game in some sort of way, “coach Ime Udoka said, following the final game of the season. “Whether it’s defending, scoring, stat sheet stuffing. Not surprised, it’s the first of many. He finished the season off with a win getting a triple-double. Shows that he has no quit. He continued to play and didn’t just pack it in.”</p><h2><b>Next man up</b></h2><p>Drafted as a prototypical playmaker, Thompson embraced change to his game when the Rockets needed him. Most rookies aren’t used to a change in habit. When big man Alperen Sengun went down with a season-ending injury in early March, Thompson often started as an undersized center standing formidably against challenging big men such as Wembanyama and Holmgren.</p><p>When Dillon Brooks was out, Thompson took over his role with ease, displaying his positional versatility, heightened pace on fast breaks and disruptive perimeter defense.</p><p>While Eason became known as a “Swiss Army Knife” in the rotation, Thompson also demonstrated this capability after Eason was sidelined, along with exceptional passing. Thompson’s development of a consistent jump shot will further elevate his game. It’s only a matter of time until he develops a consistent jump shot. Then he’ll become unstoppable.</p><p>Via Michael Shapiro of Chron, <a href="https://www.chron.com/sports/rockets/article/amen-thompson-scoot-henderson-highlights-19397502.php" rel="noopener">Rockets assistant coach Ben Sullivan</a> mentions, “He’s [Thompson] been really open and receptive to whatever we’ve asked him, wherever we’ve put him. He kind of embraces whatever role can help the group. … He can make a real impact even without the ball in his hands.”</p><h2><b>NBA All-Rookie First Team competition</b></h2><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Warriors_-Brandin-Podziemski-dribbling.jpg"><figcaption>Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption></figure><p>Thompson faces stiff competition from Jaime Jacques Jr. of the Miami Heat and Brandin Podziemski of the Golden State Warriors. Portland Trailblazers guard and third overall pick Scoot Henderson might have a puncher’s chance, but his poor efficiency and liability on a debilitating Blazers team doesn’t help his case. Both Podziemski and Jaquez have more games under their belt compared to Thompson.</p><p>Jaquez, in particular, blossomed right out of the gate during the first few months of the season before cooling off a bit after the All-Star break. For what it’s worth, he is a definitive pick for the fourth slot.</p><p>Podziemski is a contender for the fifth spot, mainly because of his shooting consistency and ability to take charges on defense. He also started in 28 games. Not to mention the fact that the Warriors are in the Play-In tournament.</p><p>However, Thompson has the edge in turnover percentage, starting stats, and contains more win shares over his two competitors, via Basketball Reference. Insert him in virtually any position and expect nothing but consistency.</p><p>The only downside for Houston’s fourth overall pick is availability early in the season and shooting consistency. Still, if selected, the Thompson twin will stand alongside Rockets teammate Jalen Green for All-Rookie First Team honors.</p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

The case for Rockets’ Amen Thompson earning 1st team All-Rookie honors

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/rockets-news-amen-thompson-ejected-for-shoving-mavericks-maxi-kleber');   ga('set', 'title', 'Rockets’ Amen Thompson ejected for blatant shove of Mavericks’ Maxi Kleber');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Rockets-new-Amen-Thompson-ejected-for-blatant-shove-of-Mavericks-Maxi-Kleber.jpg"></figure><h1>Rockets’ Amen Thompson ejected for blatant shove of Mavericks’ Maxi Kleber</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2024-04-07T13:42:38-07:00">April 7th, 1:42pm</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2024-04-07T13:42:38-07:00">April 7th, 1:42pm</time><address><a>Benedetto Vitale</a>Benedetto Vitale is an avid sports writer who is an expert at covering the NFL, college football, NBA, and UFC. He graduated from the University of Oregon in 2016 with a film degree but has since dedicated his career to sports writing.</address><h3 class="op-kicker">NBA</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>The Houston <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/warriors-news-draymond-green-truth-bomb-eliminating-rockets">Rockets are trying</a> to make a run for the play-in tournament as they take on the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday. However, things took a turn after star rookie, Amen Thompson, was ejected from the game for shoving Maxi Kleber.</p><p>Early on in the contest, Thompson blatantly pushed Kleber <a href="https://twitter.com/ClutchPoints/status/1777064690796859639" rel="noopener">to the ground</a>. Game officials eventually called it a flagrant two and ejected the Rockets’ small forward from the game.</p><figure class="op-interactive"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p dir="ltr" lang="en">Amen Thompson was hit with a flagrant 2 and ejected after this hard foul on Maxi Kleber.</p><p>Good or bad call? 🤔<a href="https://t.co/3etp4N6hNs">pic.twitter.com/3etp4N6hNs</a></p><p>— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClutchPoints/status/1777064690796859639?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2024</a></p></blockquote><p><script async="" src="https://instagram.com/embed.js"></script></p></figure><p>Although the Rockets ended the first quarter with a 42-27 lead, this isn’t an ideal situation for Houston. They’re trying to keep their playoff hopes alive but a boneheaded play from Thompson could change the tide of this contest. The NBA may consider fining Amen Thompson for his actions. However, that won’t be known until after the game.</p><p>It’s not clear what set off the initial shove. But whatever happened it’s not a great decision for Thompson to push his opponent to the ground. Especially with the Rockets fighting for a play-in tournament spot. Even if they’re a long shot to participate.</p><p>With that said, the refs in this Rockets-Mavericks game might be trying to prevent these teams <a href="https://twitter.com/ClutchPoints/status/1777068545043488838" rel="noopener">from clashing too much</a>. After hitting a tough shot, the refs called a technical on Luka Doncic for celebrating. Hilariously enough, they didn’t seem to care that Dillon Brooks was clapping in Doncic’s face after the call was made.</p><figure class="op-interactive"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p dir="ltr" lang="en">Luka Doncic got hit with a technical foul while celebrating getting a whistle and Dillon Brooks was loving it 😂<a href="https://t.co/duPQvKpdkC">pic.twitter.com/duPQvKpdkC</a></p><p>— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClutchPoints/status/1777068545043488838?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2024</a></p></blockquote><p><script async="" src="https://instagram.com/embed.js"></script></p></figure><p>Amen Thompson has had a solid rookie campaign overall. He’s excellent on the boards and is still developing as a scorer. Give this kid some time to develop and the Rockets could have star on their hands. This season, Thompson has averaged 9.2 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game.</p><h2>Rockets bright future</h2><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Jalen-Green-driving-the-lane.jpg"><figcaption>Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption></figure><p>Even if the Rockets miss out on the playoffs this season, the franchise has an incredibly bright future. They have several exciting prospects with Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., and Alperen Sengun figuring it out in the league.</p><p>Houston has been involved in numerous trade rumors and could be a team to watch for in the offseason. It’d be smart to continue building around guys like Green and Sengun. However, <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/rockets-future-alperen-sengun-jalen-green-offseason-trade-decisions">the Rockets could</a> potentially send them away in a big trade package.</p><p>But whatever happens, Houston is in position to make some big moves this coming offseason. If they can make the right moves the Rockets could be more of a playoff threat this time next year. They already have a nice lineup and the front office will have the opportunity to build upon it.</p><p>After several years of being at the bottom of the league it looks like the Rockets are well on their way to righting the ship. The front office has followed a similar rebuilding strategy as the Oklahoma City Thunder, who have become one of the best teams in the league.</p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

Rockets’ Amen Thompson ejected for blatant shove of Mavericks’ Maxi Kleber

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/why-amen-thompson-is-key-to-rockets-success-without-alperen-sengun');   ga('set', 'title', 'Why Amen Thompson is key to Rockets’ success without Alperen Sengun');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Why-Amen-Thompson-is-key-to-Rockets_-success-without-Alperen-Sengun.jpg"></figure><h1>Why Amen Thompson is key to Rockets’ success without Alperen Sengun</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2024-03-22T11:52:01-07:00">March 22nd, 11:52am</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2024-03-22T11:52:01-07:00">March 22nd, 11:52am</time><address><a>Jeremy Gretzer</a>Jeremy Gretzer joins ClutchPoints with a unique blend of experience in both the performing arts and sports journalism. A Houston native, Jeremy is happy to receive the opportunity as a beat reporter for ClutchPoints covering the Rockets. During his tenure at Back Sports Page, he honed his skills in sports writing, social media, and reporting, gaining valuable experience and having the opportunity to interact with notable figures from the NBA during media day, various charity, and pro camps events. His approach is analytical yet accessible, ensuring dedicated fans and casual readers alike can appreciate his insights.</address><h3 class="op-kicker">Mini-Editorials</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>It’s late March, and the best team this month are the Houston Rockets. Sporting a 9-1 record and a seven winning streak, <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/rockets-finding-playoff-surge-despite-season-ending-alperen-sengun-injury">the Rockets are surging</a> into play-in contention out of nowhere. Currently, the Rockets are 2.5 games behind the final spot with thirteen games left in the regular season. There’s much to admire about Houston’s recent success. While we could discuss Jalen Green’s explosion, Jock Landale, or veterans like Fred VanVleet and Jeff Green, let’s turn our attention to a specific player who has delivered exceptional starting minutes: Amen Thompson.</p><p>At first glance, Thompson’s overall stats this season might not seem noteworthy: 8.8 points, 5.9 rebounds on 53.9% shooting in 20.4 minutes, coupled with an inconsistent jumper, which might appear to be typical rookie figures. However, this hasn’t been the case lately.</p><p>When starting, the rookie averages a double-double, with 14.5 points on 65% shooting and 10.3 rebounds. The rebound numbers increase by 1.2 when he plays at least 30 minutes.</p><h2><b>Thompson’s new development</b></h2><p>Since <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/rockets-news-alperen-sengun-injury-timeline">Alperen Sengun went down</a> with a season-ending injury on March 11th, Thompson’s averages rose to sixteen points on 71% shooting, 8.7 rebounds, and two assists. These type of stats don’t necessarily come from a pass first point guard. It wasn’t what we saw during his brief stint in the Summer League. Arguably, it wasn’t what the Rockets had intended upon selecting him fourth overall at draft night.</p><p>And yet, it’s working.</p><figure class="op-interactive"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p dir="ltr" lang="en">Highest +/- by a rookie this month: </p><p>+91 — Amen Thompson<br>+90<br>+89<br>+88<br>+87<br>+86<br>+85<br>+84<br>+83<br>+82<br>+81<br>+80<br>+79<br>+78<br>+77<br>+76<br>+75<br>+74<br>+73<br>+72<br>+71<br>+70<br>+69<br>+68<br>+67<br>+66<br>+65<br>+64<br>+63<br>+62<br>+61<br>+60<br>+59<br>+58<br>+57<br>+56<br>+55<br>+54<br>+53<br>+52<br>+51<br>+50<br>+49<br>+48<br>+47<br>+46<br>+45 — Chet Holmgren <a href="https://t.co/vZYNxfI6a9">pic.twitter.com/vZYNxfI6a9</a></p><p>— StatMuse (@statmuse) <a href="https://twitter.com/statmuse/status/1771002245665947709?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2024</a></p></blockquote><p><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p></figure><p>Sometimes you have to adjust your game based on the circumstances. Discovering Thompson’s 6’7 frame, innate athleticism, and knack for defense can easily translate to a small ball lineup. It’s a great option, especially when your rotations need more versatility in the second unit.</p><p>On the surface, rebuilding teams draft players that they believe can ensure them wins, whether it be trading them for certain assets or adding them to a young core. It’s even better if the player can adapt to unfamiliar situations.</p><p>Via Michael Shapiro from Chron, <a href="https://www.chron.com/sports/rockets/article/amen-thompson-rockets-role-19362120.php">Thompson is the “de-facto center”</a> for Houston. Given that Jabari Smith Jr. is labeled as the center replacement for Sengun, he doesn’t spend too much time in the interior. Smith’s shooting ability relegates him to the wings or the elbow. In contrast, Thompson’s attempts at the basket yield better results.</p><p>Of course, the services of Sengun is sorely needed, but giving Thompson the green light to be that effective replacement gives the Rockets more options on both ends of the floor.</p><h2><b>Rockets have a versatile piece</b></h2><p>While the shooting isn’t quite there yet, Thompson is an effective cutter at the baseline. Successful possessions during the Chicago Bulls matchup consisted of VanVleet or Green bringing up the ball at the top of the key. They’d come off a Landale screen, leaving him open at the free throw line.</p><p>While Landale can certainly knock in a jumpshot or a floater, there are better options, especially when Thompson dances around the baseline. His ability to read the Bulls’ defenders and decide to quickly bolt to the basket at the right time makes it easy for Landale to dish the rock for an easy dunk.</p><figure class="op-interactive"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p dir="ltr" lang="en">Amen Thompson with AUTHORITY 😤<a href="https://t.co/1VM4fNPiTI">pic.twitter.com/1VM4fNPiTI</a></p><p>— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClutchPoints/status/1769121684957897101?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2024</a></p></blockquote><p><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p></figure><p>On other times when the Rockets isolate with their guards, Thompson can act as a premier pick and roll threat undersized center threat. No lane to the basket? No problem. Thompson’s vision, a key reason for his drafting, provides a myriad of scoring alternatives.</p><figure class="op-interactive"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p dir="ltr" lang="en">THIS AMEN THOMPSON PASS TO CAM WHITMORE IS RIDICULOUS <a href="https://t.co/lonOlqwvan">pic.twitter.com/lonOlqwvan</a></p><p>— Bradeaux (@BradeauxNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/BradeauxNBA/status/1752144383099498782?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2024</a></p></blockquote><p><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p></figure><p>Udoka had this to say about Thompson’s smooth transition in his adjusted role:</p><p>“[Thompson has] never had to do that before but whether it’s [against] zone or man, he catches it in that [middle] area, he’s one dribble from the basket,” the Rockets coach said Thursday.</p><p>Even Thompson himself “never thought it [his role] would look like this.” Not only does speak volumes on how valuable he can become, it’s also a testament to him as a player to be willing to try new things the coaching staff give him. Looking back on this draft 3-5 years from now, we might just be seeing the best player of the NBA draft <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/spurs-news-victor-wembanyama-drive-be-best-san-antonio-rough-season">outside of Victor Wembanyama</a>.</p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

Why Amen Thompson is key to Rockets’ success without Alperen Sengun

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/rockets-amen-thompson-enters-michael-jordan-territory-with-wild-rookie-feat');   ga('set', 'title', 'Rockets’ Amen Thompson enters Michael Jordan territory with wild rookie feat');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Amen-Thompson-enters-Michael-Jordan-territory-with-wild-rookie-feat.jpg"></figure><h1>Rockets’ Amen Thompson enters Michael Jordan territory with wild rookie feat</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2024-03-09T07:16:08-08:00">March 9th, 7:16am</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2024-03-09T07:16:08-08:00">March 9th, 7:16am</time><address><a>Sonny Giuliano</a>Sonny Giuliano has been covering the NFL, College Football, NBA and College Basketball for well over a decade, but he's never claimed to be an expert ... just a sports fan who cares WAY too much. Follow Sonny on Twitter (or X, whatever Elon's calling it) @SonnyCG for his sports and pop culture takes</address><h3 class="op-kicker">NBA</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>Any time a player’s name is placed in the same sentence as Michael Jordan, it reflexively forces everyone to do a double-take. It doesn’t matter if you’re saying that this player’s game is stylistically similar to MJ’s, or if over the course of a season or a long stretch of games their numbers were similar, or even if in one single game, a player does something that hasn’t been done since Michael Jordan did it. That’s the weight of the name Michael Jordan, and while any parishioner of the Church of MJ is likely to cry <i>Heresy</i> at the mere mention of Houston Rockets rookie Amen Thompson  in the same breath as His Airness, that’s the category Thompson has put himself in with his performance on Friday night versus the Portland Trail Blazers.</p><figure class="op-interactive"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p dir="ltr" lang="en">Amen Thompson had one of the most impactful games of his young career today:</p><p>16 PTS<br>8 REB<br>3 AST<br>2 STL<br>5 BLK (career high) </p><p>Michael Jordan (!!!!!) is the only other rookie guard to match/exceed these #’s in NBA History. <a href="https://t.co/YOBugPkdrE">pic.twitter.com/YOBugPkdrE</a></p><p>— Bradeaux (@BradeauxNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/BradeauxNBA/status/1766335949317849145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2024</a></p></blockquote><p><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p></figure><p>Now whether Amen Thompson is a “guard” or a “forward” is up for debate. The 6’7″ rookie is listed as a Small Forward on Basketball-Reference, but what made him such an intriguing prospect while playing for the City Reapers of the Overtime Elite was his ability to play any number of positions, so for the sake of the comparison to MJ, I suppose I can let it slide.</p><p>Over the last fifteen games, Amen Thompson has seen a boost in his minutes, and his production has increased as a result (10.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.6 steals, 1.3 blocks). Thompson is just <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/rockets-news-amen-thompson-take-on-cam-whitmore-hints-bright-future">one of two promising rookies</a> the Rockets managed to <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/rockets-cam-whitmore-amen-thompson-finding-nba-groove">snag in the 2023 NBA Draft</a>. 20th overall pick Cam Whitmore is averaging 12 points per game and has scored in double figures in 16 of his last 20 games, including last night against Portland, a game in which he scored 13 points and chipped in with 8 rebounds in just under 24 minutes of action.</p><p>In order to keep myself in the good graces of the Church of MJ, here’s a little nugget for the congregation: MJ’s season low his rookie year was 13 points, a game in which he played only 24 minutes, and it was in just the 8th game of his career that Michael Jordan notched 27 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals and 5 blocks against the Indiana Pacers.</p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

Rockets’ Amen Thompson enters Michael Jordan territory with wild rookie feat

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en">    <head>        <script>   (function(i, s, o, g, r, a, m) {     i["GoogleAnalyticsObject"] = r;     i[r] = i[r] || function() {       (i[r].q = i[r].q || []).push(arguments)     }, i[r].l = 1 * new Date();     a = s.createElement(o),       m = s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];     a.async = 1;     a.src = g;     m.parentNode.insertBefore(a, m)   })(window, document, "script", "https://www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js", "ga");   ga('create', 'UA-66147751-16', {     'storage': 'none',     'clientId': localStorage.getItem('ga:clientId')   });   ga(function(tracker) {     localStorage.setItem('ga:clientId', tracker.get('clientId'));   });   ga('set', 'checkProtocolTask', null);      ga('set', 'page', '/rockets-amen-thompson-recent-resurgence-speculates-ime-udokas-roster-decision');   ga('set', 'title', 'Rockets: Amen Thompson’s recent resurgence must force Ime Udoka to make roster change');   ga('send', 'pageview');</script>        <style type="text/css" media="all">            body {    background: transparent;    margin: 0px;}h1, h2, h3 {    color: #DDDDDD;    font-family: "SFUIText-Semibold";    margin: 30px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 21px;    line-height: 125%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}header {    margin: 0px;    height: 0px;    display: none;}p {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 15px 15px 15px 15px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}p > img {    margin-left: -15px;    width: calc(100% + 30px);}a {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;    text-decoration: underline;}ul {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 3px 10px 3px 10px;    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}ol {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    font-size: 17px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.23px;}img {    margin: 0px;    width: 100%;    height: auto;}blockquote {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.8);    font-family: "SFUIText-Medium";    margin: 30px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 19px;    line-height: 135%;    letter-spacing: -0.41px;}blockquote p {    margin: 0px;}.op-tracker, .op-ad {    display: none;    height: 0px;}article > figure {    margin: 0px;}figcaption {    color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.7);    font-family: "SFUIText-Regular";    margin: 10px 15px 30px 15px;    font-size: 13px;}iframe {    width: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;    margin: 0px;    border: 0;}.vine-embed {    height: __SCREEN_SIZE_WIDTH__;}.twitter-tweet, .instagram-media {    margin-left: 15px !important;    margin-right: 15px !important;    width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;}.clutchpoints-widget {    /*margin: 10px 15px 10px 15px !important;*/    /*margin-top: 1px !important;*/    padding-top: 10px;    /*margin-left: 15px !important;*/    /*margin-right: 15px !important;*/    /*width: __SCREEN_CONTENT_SIZE_WIDTH__ !important;*/}        </style>        <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" />    </head>    <body>        <article id="mvp-content-main"><header><figure><img src="https://wp.clutchpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Rockets_Amen_Thompson_s_recent_resurgence_speculates_Ime_Udoka_s_roster_decision.webp"></figure><h1>Rockets: Amen Thompson’s recent resurgence must force Ime Udoka to make roster change</h1><time class="op-published" datetime="2024-02-24T20:32:19-08:00">February 24th, 8:32pm</time><time class="op-modified" datetime="2024-02-24T20:32:19-08:00">February 24th, 8:32pm</time><address><a>Jeremy Gretzer</a>Jeremy Gretzer joins ClutchPoints with a unique blend of experience in both the performing arts and sports journalism. A Houston native, Jeremy is happy to receive the opportunity as a beat reporter for ClutchPoints covering the Rockets. During his tenure at Back Sports Page, he honed his skills in sports writing, social media, and reporting, gaining valuable experience and having the opportunity to interact with notable figures from the NBA during media day, various charity, and pro camps events. His approach is analytical yet accessible, ensuring dedicated fans and casual readers alike can appreciate his insights.</address><h3 class="op-kicker">Mini-Editorials</h3><figure class="op-ad"></figure></header><p>During the All-Star break, head coach Ime Udoka publicly mentioned that discussions were underway regarding adjustments to the Houston Rockets’ rotation, given their ongoing issues since the start of 2024. Whether it’s poor perimeter defense, injury woes or offensive inconsistency, the Rockets have work to do in order to attempt reaching play-in contention. However, following the break, Udoka suddenly changed his mind.</p><p>The lineup would remain the same, with the intention being to use the break for regrouping, watching film and addressing performance issues. Two games in, and it’s clear the lineup still needs a shakeup. Jalen Green continues to underperform, Dillon Brooks appears to be regressing, and Alperen Sengun’s defensive play has deteriorated significantly.</p><h2><b>Amen Thompson deserves a spot</b></h2><p>There most definitely needs to be a <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/rockets-slump-with-24-30-record-heading-into-the-all-star-break" rel="noopener">change in the starting rotation</a>, and that should come by inserting rookie Amen Thompson. The 20-year-old rookie has been a force to be reckoned with since he replaced an injured Fred VanVleet as the starting point guard. In his six games as a starter, Thompson averaged a double-double, with 12.5 points, 12.0 rebounds and 4.5 assists, shooting at an impressive 57.6 percent efficiency. Such numbers are rare for an NBA rookie.</p><p>Now, with VanVleet back in the starting five, Thompson returns to the bench. The recent success of the former Overtime Elite guard must surely merit some impact, right?</p><p>Regarding those two games, it certainly has. While the Rockets suffered a hard-to-watch loss against the New Orleans Pelicans, the rookie held his own. In 28 minutes off the bench, Thompson scored 22 points, along with five rebounds, four assists and three blocks, all while shooting 9-of-13. Much of his scoring showcased his innate ability to reach the rim against All-Stars CJ McCollum and Zion Williamson.</p><h2><b>Another solid game for the Rockets rookie</b></h2><p>Against the Phoenix Suns, <a href="https://clutchpoints.com/rockets-news-amen-thompson-take-on-cam-whitmore-hints-bright-future" rel="noopener">Thompson excelled once again</a>, but this time it was more satisfying. Along with 15 points and 10 rebounds, Thompson recorded a +15 plus-minus, adding a couple of blocks. His two blocks were against 7-foot-3 big man Bol Bol and a deflected shot attempt from future Hall of Famer Kevin Durant.</p><p>Prior to checking into the game in the first quarter, the Rockets were trailing 22-6. The starters were desperate for answers, and Thompson was their solution. He injected energy into the Rockets’ shaky first half, helping them overcome a 16-point deficit to lead 57-52 at halftime.</p><p>Udoka elected to extend Thompson’s minutes due to Jalen Green’s inconsistencies and Brooks getting into foul trouble. This strategy proved effective, with Thompson playing a total of 33 minutes, giving the Rockets the much-needed boost off the bench. They managed to hold off Durant and Devin Booker’s Suns 114-110, highlighting Thompson’s significant individual impact.</p><p>“I like the way he [Thompson] is playing,” Udoka said following the win. “He is growing on a nightly basis. He brings a lot of versatility. His activity on both ends was great.”</p><p>In the month of February, the former fourth overall pick is averaging 13.8 points, 9.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.4 steals and 1.1 blocks per game, shooting a sharp 60.7 percent field goal efficiency.</p><h2><b>Why Rockets need Amen Thompson in the rotation</b></h2><p>The Rockets need to make changes to the starting lineup. It doesn’t have to be major, but inserting Amen Thompson can provide more versatility on defense as well as increase the pace on offense. Adding another playmaker to the starting five will reduce VanVleet’s ball-handling responsibilities and open up more opportunities to get to the basket.</p><p>Moreover, the overreliance on Sengun and VanVleet’s pick-and-roll has been overwhelmingly countered by opponents. While this might reduce shooting efficiency, Udoka’s Rockets need an edge in speed and pace of play. The Rockets, as young as they are, <a href="https://www.nba.com/stats/teams/advanced">fall to 17th</a> in overall pace.</p><p>Continuing to blindly trust Jalen Green to reach superstardom has reached a point of no return. If Udoka had initial thoughts, it’s time to act on them. Thompson deserves recognition; he should be the starting shooting guard. Green clearly needs an NBA wakeup call as his offensive game continues to deteriorate.</p><p>It’s uncertain if he will consistently realize his talent at the NBA level. Unfortunately for him, a major wakeup call to his performance is necessary. Thompson has improved significantly over the course of this NBA season. Let’s give him a chance to start in the rotation.</p><figure class="op-tracker"></figure></article>    </body></html>

2024-25 SEASON STATS
PTS	REB	AST	BLK	STL
12.0	6.9	2.1	1.0	1.1

2024-25 SEASON STATS
PTS	REB	AST	BLK	STL
12.0	6.9	2.1	1.0	1.1

Amen Thompson

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Rockets: Amen Thompson’s recent resurgence must force Ime Udoka to make roster change

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