When news broke that Fred VanVleet tore his ACL during a summer workout, which will likely cost him the entire 2025-26 season, two names immediately came to mind for Rockets fans. The first was Reed Sheppard , the 2024 No. 3 overall pick who didn't do much as a rookie but suddenly finds himself in position to potentially play a vital role on a possible championship contender.

The second was Amen Thompson , who, unlike Sheppard, has already declared himself one of the league's most unique weapons and fastest rising stars entering his third season. Barring a trade for an established point guard, both Sheppard and Thompson are going to get their chance to run the show.

What Sheppard does with this opportunity will be interesting, but what Thompson does with it will be fascinating. I

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