The Houston Rockets just had one of their best seasons since the James Harden era, securing the West's No. 2 seed in a loaded conference.
Despite losing in the first round to the Golden State Warriors, the future is bright in Houston thanks to a roster loaded with young talent. They were even able to supplement their team with savvy veteran additions, such as Kevin Durant, Dorian Finney-Smith, and Clint Capela.
Losing point guard Fred VanVleet to a torn ACL before the season starts is a tough blow, but it will allow one young Rockets guard to take a step forward in the veteran's absence.
Amen Thompson predicted to take a 'leap' in 2025-26
According to Bleacher Report's Grant Hughes, Rockets guard Amen Thompson is primed for the biggest leap this season for Houston.
"With Fred VanVleet sidelined by a torn ACL, the Houston Rockets will entrust Reed Sheppard and Thompson with more playmaking duties than expected. Sheppard will perform well in his first taste of real playing time, but Thompson is going to use this opportunity as a springboard," wrote Hughes.
"The absurdly athletic wing offered hints about what he might contribute when he took over a starting role late in December of last year. Thompson averaged 18.7 points, 10.6 rebounds and 4.3 assists in January, then followed that up with 14.9 points, 8.6 boards and 6.3 assists in February, complete with 35.3 percent three-point shooting that month."
While Thompson is already one of the best perimeter defenders in the NBA, his offense is the facet of his game that needs improvement, and is what is expected to take a step forward.
Head coach Ime Udoka will certainly entrust the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft with more ball-handling duties in the wake of VanVleet's absence.
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- Bill Simmons' trade idea lands Rockets a championship-caliber Fred VanVleet replacement
- Rockets urged to make Kevin Durant contract decision to avoid potential disaster
- Rockets trade idea lands $215 million All-Star guard
- Kevin Durant reportedly willing to give Rockets discount on contract extension