1 Key goal for every member of the Houston Rockets' "core six"

Amen Thompson - Develop Handle

Were you expecting a shooting-related goal?

Fair enough. We're not going to bother looking up Thompson's three-point percentage from 2024-24. We respect ourselves, and we respect our readers.

Sure, it would behoove Thompson to improve his jumper. Let's take it one step at a time. With an improved handle, Thompson could function as a primary playmaker in lineups where the Rockets get spacing from the 5. That could come by way of an improved Sengun, or Ime Udoka could maximize lineups where Thompson shares the floor with Smith Jr. at the 5.

In that event, we'll know if Thompson can at least operate as a true point guard alongside a stretch big. Sure, playoff defenses will still scheme him out of the game as a primary playmaker. Thompson still has off-ball value - and he can start working on his jump shot next.