While his brother had started the season magnificently, it was the turn ofAmen Thompson to make a name for yourself in this second part of the season. In Houston, the 4th choice of the last Draft is on the verge of establishing himself as the 6th man thanks to his versatility, his volume of play, and his creativity. In the victory against the Suns, he played 33 minutes. This is usually the playing time of a starter, and he contributed 15 points, 10 rebounds, 2 blocks and 1 steal. The day before, against the Pelicans, he had scored 22 points.
“He progresses from evening to evening” believes Ime Udoka. “It gives us versatility. When Dillon (Brooks) takes his 4th foul, we need another defender to take care of Booker and Durant. He countered Booker. He countered Durant. He countered Bol. It's rare to go against these guys. His activity on both sides is remarkable.”
An offensive rebound specialist
Incredibly athletic, like his brother, but more creative than Ausar, Amen has two rockets under his shoes, and he is truly impressive on the offensive rebound. His combination of relaxation and timing allows him to grab rebounds and give his team extra possessions.
“I do everything necessary for us to win,” answers Amen Thompson about his activity. “Whether it’s rebounding or defending, I have to do it. If it's about scoring, that's what I'm going to do. Make a pass ? That's what I'm going to do… From now on, they're doing screen delays on me. I have to fight for rebounds now. I feel like even if I don't get rebounds, it helps Alpi (Şengün), Jalen (Green) and Jabari (Smith Jr.) to get rebounds.”
Against the Suns, Amen Thompson entered the game for the 14th time in a row, and what's interesting is that the return of Fred VanVleet hasn't cut into his playing time. Ime Udoka wants guys who sacrifice on defense, and the rookie takes playing time from Jalen Green…
Qualities to shine in the NBA
“He can defend very well in positions 1 to 4” appreciates his coach. “Little by little, he plays more and more, and he gains confidence. If there's something that easily translates to the NBA, it's defensive versatility and athleticism. That’s what we see with him. »
For 15 games, Amen Thompson averages 11.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.4 steals in 26 minutes per game. What makes its leader proud.
“It’s incredible to see him evolve night after night,” insists Fred VanVleet. “He’s getting more and more comfortable. He is so much more confident in certain spots and he understands what the coach expects of him and what the defenses give him. And defensively, it's become a problem when he's on the ball carrier. He is able to defend on Book and KD, to counter Bol Bol… He dunks, he creates plays… He is incredible! »
