Concerning Amen Thompson problem got ruthlessly exposed by the Lakers

The Rockets offense struggled mightily in Game 1 against the Lakers thanks to Amen Thompson's obvious weaknesses. The Lakers were able to sag off him and make life tougher for his teammates without facing repercussions because of Thompson's limited range. It's only been one game in the series, but the question is starting to creep up: Can Amen Thompson play winning playoff basketball with his offensive limitations?

The Rockets will need to overcome Thompson's weaknesses

Thompson ended up with 17 points in the game but shot just 7-of-18 from the field. He was a complete non-factor on the perimeter, and even missed plenty of looks inside the paint. By the end of the game, the Rockets were better off giving the ball to his less heralded teammates instead.

But it wasn't just Thompson's own scoring struggles that hurt the Rockets. As a team, they shot just 38% from the field, and Thompson's presence was a major reason why. When he didn't have the ball, the Lakers were able to help off him and put more pressure on Houston's primary actions.

The only place where Thompson was treated as a threat without the ball was at the dunker spot right next to the rim. But the Lakers' long rim protectors were able to disrupt his teammates and contest his shots at the rim simultaneously. It's hard to get any offense going when the defense has such a glaring weakness to exploit, and even more so when they're missing their best scorer in Kevin Durant.

But Thompson's strengths as a defender and ball-handler are too great for the Rockets to keep him off the floor. He can still ignite some offense for the team by forcing misses and turnovers, or driving to the rim directly. He did score some tough buckets in isolation using his unique handle and quick athleticism.

Houston has a problem without an easy solution

Putting Thompson in positions to succeed offensively is no small task, especially against an intense playoff defense. Allowing him to handle the ball more can be a partial solution, but still gives defenses the option to pack the paint. Another fix could be a deeper structural change by surrounding him with more shooters.

The Rockets' only high-volume 3-point shooters in Game 1 were Reed Sheppard and Jabari Smith Jr. Neither shot a phenomenal percentage, although they were both respectable: 5-of-14 for Sheppard and 3-of-9 for Smith. If the Rockets can continue to get potent shooting from those two and return Kevin Durant to the lineup, Thompson can find avenues to attack again.

After all, Houston was rolling offensively with Thompson recently prior to Durant's injury. KD's incredible scoring gravity could be the solution on its own, but the Rockets and Thompson will have to adapt in his absence.

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