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Thompson’s impact on the floor is already multifaceted. During the previous campaign, he demonstrated a unique skill set, finishing second in the NBA with 204 dunks while simultaneously proving to be a force on the glass with 235 offensive rebounds. His statistical output was elite, as he averaged 18.3 points, 5.3 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. These figures placed him in exclusive company alongside established stars like Luka Dončić, Tyrese Maxey, and Donovan Mitchell.
The Path to Superstardom and the Shooting Hurdle
Despite his current contributions, the Rockets are looking for Thompson to take a definitive leap. Head coach Ime Udoka noted the guard's growth during the latter half of last season, particularly in his ability to manage the game and make consistent decisions. In his final 25 appearances of the regular season, Thompson saw his production climb to 20.2 points and 8.1 rebounds per game while shooting 59.8 percent from the field. The team hopes that with the addition of veteran presence like Marcus Smart and the return of Fred VanVleet, Thompson can transition back into a versatile, do-it-all role that maximizes his natural gifts.
However, the primary obstacle standing between Thompson and superstardom remains his perimeter shooting. Last season, he connected on just 21.6 percent of his three-point attempts. In the modern NBA, where spacing is paramount, opposing defenses often sag off non-shooters, creating a 4-on-5 dynamic that can stifle an offense. For Thompson to justify his new salary and reach his ceiling as a downhill scoring force—reminiscent of players like Ja Morant or Zion Williamson—developing a reliable outside shot is considered a necessity.
The Rockets are currently operating with a two-timeline approach, aiming to remain competitive around veteran star Kevin Durant while simultaneously preparing for the future. As the franchise looks toward the post-Durant era, Thompson is viewed as the central figure in that transition. While the front office acknowledges the risks associated with such a lucrative deal for a player still refining his offensive game, they remain committed to his development. His work ethic and chemistry with teammate Alperen Şengün provide the organization with the belief that Thompson will continue to maximize his potential as he enters this next phase of his career.
