Rockets’ Future Looks Promising: Analyzing Amen Thompson’s Trade Potential

In the latest episode of a podcast, ESPN reporters Brian Windhorst and Tim MacMahon had an in-depth discussion about Houston Rockets rising backcourt star Amen Thompson. Thompson recently officially signed a five-year rookie extension with the Rockets worth a total of $208 million.

Windhorst raised an important question: “Assuming you were the Rockets’ general manager, could this contract potentially be traded in the future?” Although Thompson is currently not yet eligible to be traded, MacMahon gave a positive response, saying: “Without a doubt, this is completely possible.” He explained that when teams weigh their options, a player’s percentage of the salary cap is a key factor. With Thompson entering the trade market at 20% of the salary cap, he would naturally attract the attention of many teams.

Looking back at last season’s performance, Thompson appeared in 79 regular-season games, averaging 37.4 minutes per game while recording 18.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 1.5 steals. He also posted a 53.4% field-goal percentage, while his three-point shooting percentage was 21.6%. Although his free-throw percentage was 77.9%, it still showed his offensive potential.

During the playoffs, Thompson further elevated his performance. In six games, he averaged 44.1 minutes per game and contributed 19.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 5.7 assists, along with 2.0 steals and 1.2 blocks. Despite some turnovers (2.5 per game) and fouls (3.2 per game), he maintained a 48.8% field-goal percentage, while his three-point shooting percentage increased to 25.0%.

Overall, Amen Thompson’s abilities and relatively reasonable contract make his trade potential worth watching, suggesting that the Rockets may have greater flexibility in managing their roster in the future.