Are Amen Thompson’s Limitations Holding Back the Houston Rockets?

Amen Thompson remains one of the most electrifying young athletes on the Houston Rockets roster, but his growing list of limitations is becoming impossible to ignore. As the team continues its push toward becoming a playoff contender, the question is shifting from whether Thompson has star potential to whether his weaknesses could slow the Rockets’ long‑term plans.

The 21-year-old guard delivers elite defense, explosive transition play, and high-efficiency finishing at the rim. His size, speed, and instincts make him one of the most versatile defensive players in the NBA. Yet despite that dynamic impact, his development has stalled in one critical area: perimeter shooting.

Why Thompson’s Shooting Matters for the Rockets’ Future

Houston’s offense depends on spacing, decisiveness, and the ability to punish defenses from beyond the arc. Thompson currently struggles in all three. Defenders consistently sag off him, shrinking the floor and clogging driving lanes for teammates like Jalen Green and Alperen Şengün.

That lack of shooting confidence affects every decision the Rockets make with rotations and closing lineups. Even with his world-class athleticism, a guard who cannot reliably shoot limits late‑game options. For a team trying to establish consistency under coach Ime Udoka, that’s a major hurdle.

What makes this especially frustrating for fans in Houston is Thompson’s undeniable potential. He has already shown flashes of elite playmaking and defensive versatility. If he develops even an average jump shot, the entire outlook changes. But as of now, opposing teams are daring him to score from distance—and winning.

What’s Next for Amen Thompson and the Rockets?

The Rockets have two options: stay patient or reshape the rotation. Patience seems likely. Thompson has the work ethic and physical tools to improve his shooting mechanics over time. Many young players make significant leaps in their third or fourth seasons.

However, the Rockets are under growing pressure to compete. If wins become the priority, Udoka may need more reliable shooters on the floor, especially in tight games. That raises questions about Thompson’s long‑term role—starter, bench spark, or trade asset.

The organization invested heavily in rebuilding around Şengün, Green, and now Dillon Brooks and Fred VanVleet. Thompson was drafted as a cornerstone, not a developmental experiment. His evolution over the next year will shape the Rockets’ blueprint.

For now, the Rockets remain committed to maximizing his strengths while challenging him to address the one flaw that could determine his ceiling. If Thompson figures it out, the Rockets have a future All‑Star. If not, the team faces tough decisions sooner than expected.

This article is a summary of reporting by Sports Illustrated. Read the full story here.