The Houston Rockets have been the center of numerous headlines over the last few months, mostly because of their acquisition of Kevin Durant.
But it won’t be only Durant who helps the team in 2025-26, because Houston has a roster that makes others jealous.
Amen Thompson has been a name to watch since joining the league in 2023, and he has clear confidence in himself and his defensive abilities.
“I feel like I’m the best defender in the league,” Thompson said.
“I feel like I’m the best defender in the league.”
– Amen Thompson
(Via @SInow ) pic.twitter.com/9m4GlOfuT8
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) October 17, 2025
That’s a gutsy statement, but a lot of people believe in Thompson.
During his first two seasons in the NBA, Thompson has averaged 11.9 points and 7.4 rebounds on 54.9 percent from the field.
His offense has been promising, but it’s his defense that has earned the most accolades.
Thompson has been nonstop during numerous games, shutting down all kinds of opponents.
He is never afraid of a fight and will get in the face of anyone, playing with speed and aggression as he guards, blocks, and shuts down his competitors.
Last year, he was in the running for Defensive Player of the Year and made the league’s All-Defensive Team.
One of the best things about Thompson is that he is getting better with age.
He knows what he is good at, believes in himself, and will attempt to do even more with his defense in 2025-26.
The race for Defensive Player of the Year is going to be fierce in the new season, especially if Victor Wembanyama remains healthy.
But Thompson thinks he can outplay anyone, and he will try to prove that to his Rockets.
NEXT: Kevin Durant Gets Honest About Retiring With Rockets