Houston Rockets forward Amen Thompson is among the most talented young players in the NBA today. With tremendous potential, several perceive the young forward as a rising star. On this note, YouTube personality Kristopher London recently made a bold claim regarding Thompson.
The ’90s featured some solid NBA defenders, but none of them could effectively lock up Chicago Bulls superstar Michael Jordan. Given Jordan’s dominance in the era, London suggested that Thompson’s innate gifts could have allowed him to challenge the Bulls’ star in the ’90s. He said:
“This kid’s athleticism is something. If he (Thompson) was put in the ‘80s and ‘90s, I’m not sure if Michael Jordan would be talked about the way he is. Not even trying to discredit or disrespect Mike, but put the two highlights side by side.”
The YouTuber referenced one of Thompson’s high school highlight reels, showcasing the forward’s impressive agility and leaping ability.
“Granted, now, he is playing high school players,” London continued. “But his layup package is something I’ve never seen combined with his dunk package. Like, you can’t even create this in 2K. That’s how good and crazy it is.”
“I didn’t even know he had it like that. I’ve just seen it recently, because I knew he could ball out. He had a pretty good season. I think he’s going to be a star.”
While London already has a very high opinion of Thompson, he also outlined the next steps in his growth by saying, “Once he finds a rhythm shooting? The NBA better be scared if those guys find a jump shot, like a consistent jump shot.”
The YouTuber’s comments may be considered debatable, especially in light of the comparisons with Michael Jordan. But the Thompson twins are truly cut from a different cloth when it comes to sheer athletic gifts.
Amen, in particular, is viewed as a potential star, potentially in line to earn his first All-Star selection in the upcoming season. Apart from being an elite slasher and rim finisher, the 22-year-old has also presented impressive defensive upside, displaying the potential to become among the best two-way players in the NBA, too.
The Rockets forward had a solid sophomore year. He stood out defensively, earning his first All-Defensive selection, and even finishing fifth in DPOY voting, an impressive feat at this stage in his career. He also averaged 14.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists to go with 1.4 steals and 1.3 blocks per game.
London’s points about Thompson’s shooting skills are worth factoring in. Last season, he shot 55.7% from the field, which is elite in its own right. However, his perimeter shooting average of 27.5% could leave more to be desired.
Heading into his third season in the league, the forward will be a key member of the Rockets’ rotation. Having made significant upgrades to its roster, Houston is perceived as a contender heading into next season.
With Thompson’s development being a crucial storyline for next season, the Rockets will look forward to his growth into a star-caliber player as they mount their title charge.
