What Would the Rockets Look Like if They Built Around Amen Thompson?

In the modern NBA, it’s virtually impossible to make it far in the playoffs with two non-shooters at the court at the same time. Unfortunately for the Houston Rockets, their future is being spearheaded by two guys with that exact problem. 

With Alperen Şengün and Amen Thompson being two of the worst mid-range shooters, as covered on Roundtable, it’s no surprise that there’s been speculation and fans pushing for the front office to split the pair up.

That seems like a significant problem for this team’s two best players after the Kevin Durant era is over, epically when neither one is any better from beyond the arc. Seeing as how Amen Thompson has been deemed the more valuable player for the front office, what would a team look like built around him? 

Ironically enough, it probably wouldn’t be much different than a team dedicated to Şengün’s playstyle since they’d both need shooters. Spread the court and let them work in the paint, considering they’re relatively ineffective everywhere else. 

They’d both look great with a stretch big, and even better with one who can protect the rim too. Neither guy has had the opportunity to play with anyone like that yet.

It feels like Kevin Durant or Jabari Smith Jr. are the closest thing they’ve gotten to that, and neither are even centers. Someone like Myles Turner level of player could be a difference-maker. 

On the flip side, I do think any smaller star guard would look better next to Amen Thompson, rather than Şengün. I say this because most guards are known for their offensive capabilities more than their defense. 

Just like it’s difficult to find success with two below average shooters, you can’t have two guys who struggle defensively. Particularly not your two best players. A star guard can be hidden easier with Thompson helping out. 

With him virtually being able to play positions 1-4 already, building around Amen also gives the Rockets much more versatility. We don’t truly know which position either player will be best at yet, but we do know that Şengün can only play power forward or center. 

Theoretically, a team could play much faster with Alperen out of the equation. He’s no stranger to throwing a Wes Unseld outlet pass, but he’s also not your typical rim-running big.

Getting a more athletic option to run the court and catch lobs would dramatically change the look of this team. Tari Eason and Reed Sheppard spreading out to the corners with Amen Thompson barreling down the lane is a scary sight to behold. 

The options are truly endless and it’s fun to imagine, but I’d be surprised if the Rockets made any drastic decisions like this any time soon. Much like at the trade deadline, I expect relative stagnation with this roster.