This offseason, Houston Rockets wing Amen Thompson has drawn significant attention after becoming just the seventh player to earn a First Team All-Defensive <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA honor at only 22 years old. Entering his second season, Thompson’s combination of defensive prowess and athleticism has positioned him as a rising talent within the league, fueling speculation about his potential impact moving forward.

Thompson has shown impressive improvements across multiple statistical categories this season. He averages 14.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game, while elevating his shooting efficiency to a notable 55.7% from the field. These numbers represent a considerable leap from his rookie campaign and underscore his growing influence on both ends of the court.

Offensive Growth and the Promise of All-NBA Talent

Despite his defensive accolades and athletic gifts, experts widely agree that Thompson’s offensive development will determine if he can reach All-NBA status. His elite speed, strength, and jumping ability make him a defensive nightmare for opponents, capable of guarding any top player on the floor. However, consistent scoring, particularly a reliable jump shot, remains the critical area for growth.

NBA insiders and former players emphasize this point. Former All-Star Jeff Teague remarked,

“If he ever figures out how to shoot the ball, he’s a top ten player in the NBA. If he figures out how to shoot, you can’t guard him.”

—Jeff Teague

Rockets teammate Jabari Smith Jr. praised Thompson’s athleticism, noting,

“If you put athleticism as a whole. Like speed, strength, jumping, if you put all of it in there. I don’t think anyone is as fast or can jump as high as him.”

—Jabari Smith Jr.

Adding to the chorus of confidence, NBA superstar Kyrie Irving declared,

“He’s about to run this league for a while.”

—Kyrie Irving

Recognition in League Rankings and Remaining Challenges

Reflecting his growing reputation, HoopsHype recently placed Thompson seventh among their Top 26 Shooting Guards for the 2025-26 season. Frank Urbina of HoopsHype described Thompson as a

“slippery guard with great size, strength and athleticism”

but also highlighted the offensive challenges facing the young player.

Urbina pointed out Thompson’s shooting struggles, commenting,

“If he just had a more reliable jumper, we’d be projecting a first-time All-Star bid in Thompson’s near future. Thompson hit just 27.5 percent of his threes last season. His work as a pull-up shooter out of the midrange remains equally lacking.”

—Frank Urbina

Despite offensive issues, Thompson’s impact near the basket remains significant. Urbina praised his physicality and finishing skills, stating that Thompson can

“rebound like a big man and finish near the basket as efficiently as one.”

—Frank Urbina

Outlook for Thompson’s Career and Development

The crucial next step in Amen Thompson’s trajectory involves enhancing his shooting ability, an area he has addressed by training extensively with respected coaches in the off-season. Should his offensive game improve in his third year, the stage will be set for Thompson not only to earn an All-Star appearance but potentially to receive All-NBA recognition.

With his elite defensive skills, remarkable athleticism, and dedication to growth, Amen Thompson is positioned to become a cornerstone for the Houston Rockets, potentially transforming the team’s future and solidifying his place among the league’s most exciting young players.