Rockets' Amen Thompson gets sweet revenge in win vs Heat

The Houston Rockets get under opponents' skin.

It's just what they do. This is one of the most physical teams in the NBA. The Rockets win by fighting harder than the next team. Sometimes, that means making enemies.

The last time the Rockets played the Heat, it was contentious. Amen Thompson and Tyler Herro had an altercation that practically shut down X. When it was over, it didn't seem "over". Mutual trash was talked.

In Friday's rematch, Thompson backed it up.

Rockets get massive comeback from Amen Thompson

He backed it up to the tune of 18 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists, and a staggering 7 steals. It was a breath of fresh air after his (surprisingly brief) absence. Thompson didn't simply make a comeback - he was the Rockets' best player in this contest.

It should be said that Thompson alters the team's complexion. The Rockets scored just 102 points against the Heat. Miami packed the paint, and Thompson gave Houston one less shooter on the perimeter. Incorporating him back into the offense proved challenging.

That said, the Heat came one field goal short of the 100-point milestone. With just 98 points, they won't beat many teams. Thompson revitalized the defense that has defined the Rockets' identity all season.

In time, it may be necessary to surround Thompson (and perhaps Alperen Sengun or Jalen Green) with better floor spacing. The Rockets' future roster construction remains unclear. What is clear is that Thompson will be a building block. Whatever the Rockets decide to do, they're likely to do it with Thompson in mind.

He can take some of the league's most talented offensive players out of games.

Rockets' Thompson gets upper hand in rivalry

Herro wasn't able to do the same damage as Thompson. He had just 8 points on 3/11 shooting. Thompson was his primary defender throughout much of this contest. He also had 6 turnovers, and Thompson forced several of them.

Yes, it was fun to watch Thompson get the better of someone he's had an issue with. There's a broader point here. Herro is a 6-year pro who's having the best season of his career:

Thompson unequivocally outplayed him.

Concerns about his shooting are warranted. There are no concerns about his overall ability to impact a basketball game. Thompson is a winning player, and he put all of his tools on full display against the Heat:

Much to Tyler Herro's chagrin.