Rockets Season PREVIEW: Can Amen Thompson TRANSFORM Houston And Become "THE GUY" This Year?

Amen Thompson faces season-defining expectations as the Houston Rockets eye a leap forward. Can Amen become the offensive star Houston needs, or will shooting woes continue to limit his impact? Host Jackson Gatlin (@JTGatlin) is joined by sports reporter for Chron.com Michael Shapiro (@mshap2) break down Thompson’s new $208 million extension, Fred VanVleet’s return from injury, and the effect of Chip Engelland’s arrival on Amen’s shooting development. The duo examines key stats—like Amen’s elite finishing and defensive metrics—alongside his dramatic increase in free throw percentage and evolving mid-range game. Discussions focus on Thompson’s changing role alongside Kevin Durant, Marcus Smart, and Alperen Sengun, Houston’s deeper roster, and how a wing-heavy rotation might maximize Amen’s strengths. Can Amen maintain his All-Defense potential while anchoring the offense? What does his growing on-ball equity signal for the Rockets’ playoff ambitions? Hear exclusive insights and bold stat predictions for one of the NBA’s most intriguing young talents.