Who’s ready for a breakout season? ESPN’s top analysts have made a bold prediction for a rising Houston Rockets star to win the Most Improved Player award! With the Kevin Durant trade shaking things up, could this young talent truly dominate the court next year and exceed all expectations?

The upcoming NBA season is buzzing with anticipation, particularly for the Houston Rockets, as an anonymous panel of ESPN experts has overwhelmingly tipped rising star Amen Thompson to clinch the prestigious Most Improved Player (MIP) award.

Thompson’s second year in the league with the Houston Rockets showcased significant growth, where he notably averaged 14.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game, establishing himself as a foundational piece for the team’s future.

Beyond his evolving offensive statistics, the 22-year-old guard solidified his reputation as an elite defensive force. His exceptional play earned him an All-Defensive team selection and a fifth-place finish in the highly competitive NBA Defensive Player of the Year race, highlighting his profound impact on that end of the court.

ESPN expert Collier emphasized Thompson’s undeniable defensive prowess, stating, “He has already established himself as an elite defensive player, making the All-Defensive team and is currently one of the best on-ball defenders in the league.”

Furthermore, Thompson’s offensive game demonstrated clear signs of improvement during the playoffs. Collier observed, “His offensive game showed signs of improvement in the playoffs, with better handles and a jumper as he upped his scoring averages as the series went on, giving the league a glimpse of what he can do on the other side of the ball.”

The arrival of superstar Kevin Durant is expected to significantly amplify Thompson’s offensive development. Playing alongside an elite scorer like Durant will undeniably create more opportunities and space, allowing Thompson to further refine his offensive toolkit.

As Amen Thompson enters his third season, poised for a significant role within a Houston Rockets team brimming with high expectations for the 2025-26 season, the experts believe he is ready to take another monumental leap. His blend of defensive dominance and burgeoning offensive skills, especially with the Kevin Durant trade, makes him a prime candidate for the NBA Most Improved Player award.

This forecast underscores the Rockets’ strategic offseason moves and the profound confidence in Thompson’s potential to become one of the league’s most impactful two-way players, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.