Sorry, Zion, the Rookie of the Year race is still a one-man show

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.