Kawhi Leonard is likely one of the NBA’s most athletic gamers, utilizing his bodily presents at each ends of the courthouse.
His resume consists of two Closing MVP awards, two defensive gamers of the 12 months, and eight All-NBA alternatives.
Discovering two-way athletes like Kawhi Leonard proves tough, particularly amongst non-centers who can have an effect on victory on the elite degree.
However former participant Jeff Teague believes that one present participant is understanding, particularly as a result of defensive side.
Teague believes Houston Rockets guard Amen Thompson has glorious athleticism and will probably develop right into a high 10 participant with correct taking pictures growth.
The previous level guard expressed sturdy confidence in Thompson’s trajectory after his sophomore season. Teague believes the youthful safety guard will enhance considerably in his third NBA marketing campaign.
“I’ve a whole lot of inventory in that Thompson Twin. I feel he will leap. He was good final 12 months, however I feel subsequent 12 months will probably be nice,” Teague defined.
Thompson’s ceilings rely fully on the event of constant boundary fireplace. Teague argues that including a dependable three-point fireplace makes Thompson just about susceptible.
“If he understands the right way to shoot the ball, he’ll be the highest 10 participant within the NBA. If he finds a method to shoot the ball, you’ll be able to’t shield him,” he continued.
“He is rather more athletic than Kawi Leonard, and he has the deal with, and the one factor he cannot do is shoot,” Teague added.
Teague’s feedback are heavy given Thompson’s defensive achievements after his sophomore season. The younger guards launched the two-way potentialities of the elite and gained a number of all defensive groups.
Thompson averaged 1.4 steels and 1.3 blocks per sport final season, efficiently defending a number of NBA stars, together with Stephen Curry. His defensive versatility permits him to successfully defend a number of positions.
His defensive affect is often in step with the elite degree related to established veterans. Thompson’s skill to confuse opposing crimes whereas contributing to statistical classes is worthy of him.
However the offensive limitations are evident regardless of his defensive excellence. Thompson’s 14.1 factors, 3.8 assists and eight.2 rebounds are usually not but certified for manufacturing within the elite NBA.
His taking pictures fee generates the best concern, particularly his 30% 3-point accuracy, which limits offensive intervals and effectiveness.
If Thompson developed offensive contributions by means of mentorship from gamers like Kevin Durant, he might hint the trajectory to turn into an elite two-way participant much like Leonard.
Thompson’s growth timeline additionally coincides with Houston’s aggressive window, with enhancements changing into extra vital in direction of the franchise’s championship aspirations.
