Joe Johnson calls out Amen Thompson for lacking a jump shot after signing a huge extension image
Amen Thompson is a fantastic player for the Houston Rockets, and he just got rewarded with a massive five-year contract extension worth $208 million. Considering he is a young and talented player, it is clear why the Rockets invested in him.
However, it seems that there are still plenty of holes in his game. He is a fantastic talent, but there are some aspects of his play style that might not be conducive to winning, especially in the modern NBA where the offense has to be quite dynamic.
Joe Johnson believes Amen Thompson must develop his jump shot due to his contract
Thompson is one of the league's most athletic finishers, which made him one of the most disruptive defenders in the league. At the same time, Thompson is also among the leaders for total dunks in the 2026-27 season, as he is up there with the centers.
With that, there are some holes in his game as well. He is an elite off-ball mover, which is why he gets so many points in the paint with drop passes and smart cuts. However, it also shows that he struggles with his jump shot.
MORE:Why people think Amen Thompson's extension is worth the debate
Former All-Star Joe Johnson is well-known as one of the most potent scorers of the 2000s and 2010s. He was a true three-level scorer who earned multiple All-Star nods, so he knows a thing or two about being effective on offense. Johnson appreciates Thompson's skill set, but he knows there is much more to the young wing's game.
"All he should be doing is putting up jump shots, you know, this summer. I mean, because look, that tells me one thing. The Houston Rockets really believe that he is like that. You know, invest that type of money into you. Come on, bro. You got to develop this jumper. They're going to need that," Johnson said on Night Cap regarding Thompson's new contract and needed improvements.
While it does sound harsh from the outside, it is likely that Thompson is also well aware of his hole in his game. There are tons of potential within Thompson, but it is being limited with an offensive game entirely dependent on getting into the paint. If he gets a jump shot, that massive contract might look like a bargain.
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