Rockets' Amen Thompson proves how bright his future is vs defending champs

It's difficult to describe the Houston Rockets' Amen Thompson without using superlatives.

He's not just fast - at his height, he's the fastest. Thompson isn't just a leaper - he soars higher than anyone. He's not just athletic. Thompson may be the most athletic player the NBA has ever seen.

On Monday, he put all those gifts on display against the Celtics. He carried the Rockets to a 114-112 win over the Celtics.

He gave them a glimpse into their bright future in the process.

Thompson looks like the Rockets' franchise player

The box score stands out. Thompson had 33 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists. If you watched the game, it was the last play that left you speechless.

Thompson hit the game-winner. It was a midrange jump shot. This is not a shot that's supposed to be in his arsenal. Thompson stopped on a dime, rose, and fired. The result was pure. With barely enough time for a (frankly, terrifying) halfcourt heave from Payton Pritchard, the outcome was secured.

There's been much discussion about Thompson's offensive role if he can't shoot. Well, he's hitting 50.0% of his shots between 3-10 feet, and 45.7% of his jumpers from 10-16 feet. Coupled with a remarkable 75.7% from 0-3 feet, this feels like a star's shot profile.

Is Thompson the Rockets' star?

Thompson stands out on talented Rockets team

No man is an island. Thompson had a little help from his friends in this contest.

Some would even argue that Dillon Brooks was the Rockets' best player. He had 36 points including an incredible 10/15 mark from downtown.

Alperen Sengun nearly had a triple-double. He struggled to score against a jumbo-sized Celtics lineup - Sengun had just 11 points - but he found other ways to contribute with 9 rebounds and 9 assists.

Brooks will not be the Rockets' franchise player. Sengun still could be. He could also share those responsibilities with Thompson.

Let's talk about Jalen Green. He had a mediocre game on paper. Green finished with 12 points on 3/13 shooting.

His low shooting volume was notable. Green took a backseat. It's also worth noting that he injured his eye (side note: this kid is tough) but more broadly, he let Thompson run the show.

It was reflective of the season the Rockets have had. Their strength is in numbers. That said, Thompson is beginning to make a habit of separating himself from the pack.

It would be impossible to exaggerate his potential.