Rockets View Amen Thompson As ‘A Basketball Player First’ Over Specific Positional Role

Amen Thompson offers the Houston Rockets positional versatility, which could complicate certain lineup configurations while amplifying others. Houston’s decision to select Reed Sheppard at No. 3 could allow the coaching staff to continue to allow Thompson to develop into a player that defies traditional roles.

Thompson played approximately ninety percent of his minutes as a rookie at either shooting guard or small forward with the rest being as a traditional point guard. Thompson could share ballhandling duties with Sheppard when on the floor together.

“The consensus from the coaching staff is that Thompson is a basketball player first, rather than having him shoehorned into a hole,” wrote Iko. “I think [Ime] Udoka will stick to that plan, especially given the presence of Reed Sheppard now. Think of Thompson as a ballhandling wing who can be either a primary or secondary creator.”

In 62 games, Thompson averaged 9.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.3 steals. Thompson shot just 13.8 percent on three-pointers and 68.4 percent on free throws.