In the recent Thunder-Rockets game, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's drive demonstrated the challenges faced by defenders against a double-big lineup. Despite the complexity of defending two proficient screeners like Holmgren and Hartenstein, Amen Thompson effectively neutralized the threat by skillfully contesting Gilgeous-Alexander's shot without fouling. This encounter illustrates Thompson's exceptional defensive prowess, characterized by impressive agility, balance, and a competitive spirit. His unique ability to move seamlessly and react intuitively makes him one of the standout players in today's NBA, drawing praise for his remarkable defense alongside his brother, Ausar.
This action forces one player to defend Gilgeous-Alexander's drive from a disadvantageous position, which has been a death sentence for almost every single defender, all year.
You can see the predatory instincts that make Thompson perhaps the single most magnetic player in the NBA this season.
It is scarcely comprehensible that someone this tall can move like that, and when I watch Thompson deftly scramble around thudding screens, I feel like I'm witnessing someone ruled by a different set of physical laws.
I like watching him and his twin brother, Ausar, play defense more than basically anyone else in the league, because they are able to essentially teleport.
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