Amen Thompson Steps Up After VanVleet’s Injury

HOUSTON, Texas — Amen Thompson, a standout rookie for the Houston Rockets, finds himself in a critical position following the news that guard Fred VanVleet will likely miss the entire 2025-26 season due to an ACL injury. This change opens the door for Thompson to take on a larger role, potentially leading the team as it aims for a championship.

Thompson, the third overall pick in 2024, didn’t have the most impactful debut season. However, with VanVleet’s absence, he has the opportunity to showcase his skills in a significant way. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how he develops in this newfound role.

“What Amen does with this opportunity will be fascinating,” said one Rockets analyst. “He has a chance to rewrite the narrative of his career so far.”

In his previous season, Thompson demonstrated impressive stats, averaging nearly six assists per game in the 15 games he played while VanVleet was sidelined. He is expected to step up as the primary ball-handler and orchestrate the offense.

Thompson stands at 6 feet 7 inches, providing him with a physical advantage. While he may not possess the height of 6 feet 10 inches Ben Simmons, Thompson’s athleticism and defensive skills might give him an edge. His ability to drive in the paint and facilitate plays will be crucial for the Rockets.

Despite concerns over his shooting, Thompson has shown signs of improvement. His mid-range shooting percentage jumped from 29.6% to 38.2% from his first to second year. Additionally, his three-point shooting significantly improved, rising from 11.1% to 37.0%.

<p“His confidence on the court is evident, and he’s rapidly improving,” said a source close to the Rockets. “If he continues this trajectory, he could exceed expectations.”

Critics often draw comparisons between Thompson and Simmons regarding their play styles and physical attributes. While Thompson’s development as a playmaker will take time, the team believes he has the potential to fulfill that role effectively.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Amen Thompson to see how he handles the pressures of leading the offense. This could be the breakthrough year that many expect him to achieve.