Rockets fans get the best possible update on Amen Thompson's injury

The Houston Rockets saved all their injuries for the end of the season.

For much of 2024-25, they were untouched by affliction. Suddenly, a rash of injuries occurred, and the Rockets couldn't keep their full team on the floor.

A six-game losing streak was painful to watch. It's blissfully over. The Rockets are on a roll, and they're mostly healthy.

Mostly. The Rockets have still been without arguably the one player who's most galvanized their fans in 2024-25. You aren't alone if Amen Thompson was the main reason you were tuning into Rockets games.

It looks like you'll be checking back in soon.

Young Rockets star is set to return

It is March 21, 2025. As of this writing, it is 7:04 AM in Houston. The article will be published in a couple of hours.

Excuse me for lifting the veil.

Anyway, as of right now, Thompson is listed as "probable" for tonight's action against the Heat. This is a moment worth documenting. Thompson's return is monumental for Rockets fans.

What should they expect from him?

Rockets getting one of their best players back at key time

They should probably expect a semblance of restriction. It would be surprising to see Thompson come back and play starter's minutes from day one. He's likely to need to ease into action.

That said, the Rockets are getting a needle-mover back. Thompson's 3.4 Box Plus/Minus (BPM) ranks 3rd on the Rockets. His Defensive Box Plus/Minus (DBPM) of 2.3 ranks second. Rockets fans know Thompson has been one of their most impactful two-way players - that's why they've been tuning in to watch him all year.

Tari Eason has been picking up the slack in his absence. Even if Thompson is available against Miami, expect Eason to continue starting. In the long run, the Rockets may look to start both. Eason's revelatory play this month could warrant a long-term place in the starting lineup.

That said, Thompson is entrenched as a long-term starter. As the season has worn on, it's seemed like he's one of Houston's highest priorities. Ime Udoka's appreciation for his defensive impact has been particularly evident. He'll get back into the starting lineup.

For now, let's all take a moment to be thankful. Thompson's injury could have been considerably worse. He's nearing a return whether he's ready to suit up tonight or not.

Here's hoping his injury is the last of the Rockets' 2024-25 season.