Amen Thompson can put NBA on notice this postseason

Amen Thompson has arrived, with his electrifying talent helping the Houston Rockets earn a playoff spot for the first time in five years. The 22-year-old has elevated in several ways this season, so much so that where Thompson lands, with more refining, is intriguingly unpredictable. 

Thompson is already being tasked with slowing down Steph Curry when the Rockets play the Warriors in the first round. Just off natural gifts, Thompson has a chance to dictate how this series goes. The Warriors must deal with his sudden bounce, relentless effort on both ends and seemingly constant aggressive presence.

They got a taste of it earlier this month, when Thompson annoyed the Warriors offense on April 6 in a 106-96 win. He played a huge role in Curry going 1-for-10 from the field. It was the latest example of how Thompson makes watching defensive highlights an entertaining experience. 

Whether it's securing crucial rebounds, getting timely blocks or providing momentum-swinging dunks, Thompson's game is fit for the every-possession-matters nature of postseason ball. If there's one advantage the Rockets have entering this series, it's the athleticism Thompson will bring to the floor. 

Aside from trying to advance to the next round, Thompson can put the NBA and fans on notice. Throughout the season, he's shown the ability to compete with the league's best. The defending champion Boston Celtics saw it up close in January when Thompson showed off for a career-high 33 points. He capped it off by putting Jaylen Brown on skates before hitting a game-winning floater. 

Beyond his physical gifts, though, there's a subtle polish to Thompson's game that provides a great foundation. His athleticism doesn't get in the way of having solid footwork, allowing him to be creative for himself and others. 

Perhaps one of the most intriguing elements of Thompson's game is his straight-to-the-point style. He's from the Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler lineage of no wasted movements. The mission is to attack with precision and aggression. The 6-foot-7 Thompson is the rare supreme athlete with functional basketball skills. 

Thompson finished the season averaging 14.1 points, 8.2 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game. He must continue to hone his shooting and ball handling, but he's already earned a reputation as an elite defender. 

Signs point to a long career of being a two-way menace on the floor. Thompson now has the opportunity to prove that he's among the leaders of the new era.