Houston Rockets: What Amen Thompson Must Improve Next Season

Amen Thompson gave the Houston Rockets plenty to be excited about this past season. His athleticism, defensive range, rebounding, and playmaking already look like winning traits. However, if Thompson wants to unlock another level in year two, his offensive polish has to keep growing.

That is the big takeaway as the Rockets look ahead to next season. Thompson already impacts games without needing plays designed for him. Still, defenses will keep testing him in the half court until he becomes a more reliable shooter and more consistent creator in traffic. For a young team trying to climb higher in the Western Conference, that development matters a lot.

Why Amen Thompson’s scoring growth matters for the Rockets

Thompson’s talent pops right away. He can pressure the ball, guard multiple positions, push the pace, and create chaos in transition. Those skills fit perfectly on a Rockets roster built around length, speed, and defensive pressure. Even so, playoff-level defenses usually force young guards and wings to score in structured settings.

That is where Thompson can make his biggest leap. If he improves his jumper, especially from the perimeter and at the free-throw line, opponents will have a much harder time sagging off him. As a result, the floor opens up for Houston’s entire offense. That would help create cleaner driving lanes and easier opportunities for teammates.

In addition, a tighter in-between game could make him even tougher to defend. A dependable floater, stronger touch near the rim, and better finishing through contact would give him answers when transition chances disappear. Right now, his energy changes games. Next season, his scoring package could start deciding them.

What’s next for Houston’s rising young core

The Rockets are no longer in the early rebuild stage where flashes alone are enough. Expectations have changed. Houston now needs its best young players to turn potential into dependable production, and Thompson is near the top of that list.

Fortunately for the Rockets, he does not need to become a volume scorer overnight. Instead, the next step is efficiency and confidence. If he can punish defenders for leaving him open, finish more cleanly in the half court, and keep making smart reads, Houston gets a much more complete weapon on both ends.

That would also raise the ceiling of the roster around him. Thompson’s growth is not just about his own stat line. It could shape rotations, spacing, late-game options, and how dangerous the Rockets become against stronger opponents next season.

Houston fans already know the tools are there. Now the focus shifts to refinement. If Thompson sharpens the offensive side of his game, the Rockets may have another major breakout candidate on their hands.

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