Amen Thompson was one of the Houston Rockets’ most reliable playmakers during their first-round playoff matchup against the Golden State Warriors.
After Thompson’s standout playoff performance, in which he averaged 14.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.6 steals, and 1.0 blocks per game, former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins took to social media, urging the Rockets to make Thompson untouchable in any trade talks this summer.
Thompson’s Breakout Performance Spark Trade Rumors
In his second NBA season, following a stint in the G League bubble during the 2020-21 campaign, the 22-year-old wing put on an unforgettable performance against the Golden State Warriors. His Game 5 eruption was a standout, as he posted 25 points, six rebounds, three assists, three blocks, and five steals in just 35 minutes.
During the Rockets’ seven-game playoff run, Thompson shot 56.3% from the field, averaging 17.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, proving himself as a two-way force on basketball’s biggest stage. In the critical Game 7, Thompson once again led Houston with 24 points and nine rebounds, although the Rockets fell 103–89 to the Warriors.
His late-series surge—18.2 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game in the final five games—showcased his quick rise into a postseason standout.
Kendrick Perkins, now an ESPN analyst and 2008 NBA champion, praised Thompson’s poise under pressure, his defensive instincts, and his explosive athleticism, calling for the Rockets to make him untouchable in any trade discussions.
Kendrick Perkins’ stern declaration that Thompson is untouchable reinforces Houston’s resolve to nurture its future stars rather than barter them for immediate gains. In his X tweet, Perkins explained, “When it comes to the off season and trade talks… Amen Thompson definitely better be untouchable. That young man is Special.”
According to Tim MacMahon, a veteran NBA reporter for ESPN, discussions among Rockets executives suggest that trading Thompson would undermine the team’s long-term plans and contradict its patient rebuild strategy.
Rockets coach Ime Udoka put it on stone by saying, “We’re all on the same page as far as what we have in our organization and wanting to see it through and seeing what all these young guys can become.”
By safeguarding their top young talent, the Rockets are signaling a commitment to sustained development over pursuing short-term star power.
Thompson Firmly Entrenched as a Foundational Piece
Locking Amen Thompson into the core allows the Rockets to build around his unique blend of versatility and defensive tenacity while providing continuity as they develop complementary pieces like Jalen Green, Alperen Şengün, and Reed Sheppard.
Beyond his immediate impact, Thompson’s emergence gives Houston strategic flexibility. Should they pursue a veteran star, the Rockets can leverage other assets without compromising the team’s long-term potential.
Moreover, Thompson’s playoff performance offers a blueprint for how the young Rockets can compete in a highly competitive Western Conference full of championship contenders.
As the offseason progresses, the Rockets are entering the trade season with a clear message—Amen Thompson is off-limits, and the foundation of Houston’s future contender will be built around his growth.
