For now, Amen Thompson did not really have the opportunity to discuss the issue with his coach, and newcomer to the Rockets, Ime Udoka. The 4th choice in the Draft should see things more clearly next week, as to his expected role in the Texans’ game.
But the staff warned him from the start: he will have to defend. “ They can’t take you off the field if you defend ”, the former Overtime Elite player already knows. We ask him to defend, but also to rely on his qualities in attack.
“ I can go to the circle, I can facilitate and create for myself. I think we’ll have more discussions soon, but for now, that’s all I know.”, formulates the rookie interviewed by The Athletic.
This highlights creative qualities that should be useful in the Rockets’ game, where the ball should mainly pass into the hands of summer recruit Fred VanVleet, and Alperen Sengun.
“ They can also lead an attack. Having so many creators on the field, guys who can make others play, makes your job easier… I could see some things (Nikola) Jokic with many players playing backdoor with Sengun », imagines the leader (2m01), mentioning this now known comparison between the young Texan pivot and his Nuggets counterpart in terms of vision of the game.
If he already considers his interior as “ a great passer “, Amen Thompson sees in Fred VanVleet, defector from the Raptors, ” a great leader. I already see how he can control a match, I learn a lot from him. He is also an excellent passer. I have the impression that we already have a little game for two (between Sengun and VanVleet). »
The 20-year-old adds: “ In the game, there are spontaneous moments where it’s obvious that something is up. With everyone, to be honest. »
