Houston Rockets guard/forward Amen Thompson had an impressive rookie season, averaging 9.5 points, 6.6 rebounds and 2.6 assists throughout the 2023-24 season. The 21-year-old took full advantage of his minutes, prompting speculation that he could earn a starting spot instead of Dillon Brooks.
Thompson played 22.4 minutes per game, but he shined when he got more opportunities. Brooks averaged 12.7 points, 3.4 rebounds and 1.7 assists in 30.9 minutes, which, by scale, isn’t as impressive as what Thompson did when he got plenty of playing time.
Amen Thompson in games where he played 32 minutes or more during his rookie year:
18 PTS – 11 REB – 10 AST – 3 STL – 3 BLK
25 PTS – 10 REB – 2 AST – 1 STL – 2 BLK
18 PTS – 14 REB – 5 AST – 2 STL – 1 BLK
19 PTS – 12 REB – 2 AST – 2 STL – 1 BLK
15 PTS – 10 REB – 2 AST – 1 STL – 2 BLK… pic.twitter.com/40GylO4cZS— Bradeaux (@BradeauxNBA) August 17, 2024
The Rockets ranked 11th in rebounding percentage last season, largely due to Thompson’s rebounding contributions. Offense was a big problem for Houston, and given that they made minimal roster changes, its improvement would come from rotation changes.
If the Rockets start Thompson, they’ll have a better Swiss Army knife than they did with Brooks. Thompson is slightly less of a scorer, but he’s a better playmaker and rebounder than the former Memphis Grizzly.
Putting Brooks on the bench would also help to better mentor the younger players. Reed Sheppard, Cam Whitmore and Tari Eason are among the next five players, so trading Thompson and Brooks would balance out the lineups. Not to mention, Brooks would share more of the court with former teammate Steven Adams, creating some chemistry.
Statistically, Thompson’s spot in the starting lineup would elevate the rest of the starting lineup, while Brooks would balance the bench by scoring a point. As Houston gets closer to training camp, head coach Ime Udoka should weigh the possibilities, as the Rockets battle for the playoffs after a 41-41 2023-24 season.
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