The NBA landscape presents a vast array of keeper possibilities for fantasy managers as teams look to build their rosters for the future. Top keepers like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the MVP-caliber guard for the Oklahoma City Thunder, continue to shine with consistent top-five fantasy seasons. Meanwhile, emerging talents like Chet Holmgren provide intriguing upside, having recorded impressive averages during limited playing time. The Cleveland Cavaliers have a similar dynamic with Darius Garland, who has stepped up as a two-time All-Star, while Evan Mobley's recent progress solidifies him as a captivating upside keeper.

The Boston Celtics find themselves in a unique position with Jayson Tatum, whose future may be clouded by injury, yet still holds immense value. Conversely, Payton Pritchard's rise as a scoring option solidifies him as a keeper amid roster instability. Other notable players include Amen Thompson of the Houston Rockets, whose upward trajectory in defense and scoring makes him an enticing keeper, alongside Karl-Anthony Towns for the New York Knicks, who holds considerable fantasy value as a center.

Emerging talents like Anthony Edwards with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Ja Morant with Memphis also offer solid production, while Victor Wembanyama's defensive prowess and scoring ability make him a top prospect for the Spurs. The importance of establishing these keepers is underscored by a blend of current performance and future potential, highlighting a strategy that rewards both immediate results and long-term planning in fantasy basketball.

The Houston Rockets have showcased remarkable depth in the 2024-25 NBA season, finishing with a 52-30 record and securing the second-best spot in the Western Conference without an All-NBA player. The Ringer highlights six Rockets in its latest top-100 player rankings, illustrating the team's strength in numbers over star power.

Alperen Sengun, rated 36th, is noted for his passing prowess and continuous improvement. Amen Thompson, in 41st, is described as a versatile player whose abilities transcend traditional positions. Fred VanVleet stands at 64, recognized for his impactful perimeter shooting and defensive skills. Tari Eason, ranked 88, is emerging as a standout perimeter defender. Dillon Brooks takes the 93rd spot, known for his physical style of play. Lastly, Jalen Green, at 98, is acknowledged for his electrifying athleticism and scoring ability, albeit with some statistical concerns.

Jock Landale has high hopes for his Houston Rockets teammate Amen Thompson, labeling him as the future of the franchise and a potential superstar in the NBA. Landale praised Thompson’s unique skill set, emphasizing his impressive defensive performance that earned him a spot on the NBA’s All-Defensive First Team. The Rockets have seen significant improvement, transitioning from a .500 record to a 52-win season, largely attributed to their elite defense.

Thompson’s stats, including 15.9 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 5.2 assists in 37 games as a starter, showcase his well-rounded game. As Landale noted, Thompson possesses an unmatched work ethic and adaptability on the court, making him a critical asset for the Rockets moving forward. With Landale also contributing significantly, the Rockets’ future looks bright.

The announcement of the 2024-25 All-NBA Teams has stirred excitement among fans, notably for first-time honorees like Jalen Williams, Cade Cunningham, and Evan Mobley. Williams, the first player from the 2022 draft class to achieve this honor, highlights a promising future for the Oklahoma City Thunder. Meanwhile, Cunningham and Mobley, key figures from the 2021 NBA Draft, elevate their respective teams, the Detroit Pistons and Cleveland Cavaliers, by earning All-NBA distinction for the first time.

As the league continues its position-less format and strict eligibility rules, many young stars, including Victor Wembanyama and Paolo Banchero, faced setbacks in their All-NBA pursuits due to injuries. Wembanyama showed immense potential as a defensive powerhouse before being sidelined, while Banchero dazzled in his early games before injury curtailed his season. Both players are expected to return strong next season, with Wembanyama looking to secure a spot on an All-NBA team in 2025-26. Similarly, Banchero's early performance suggests he could be a frontrunner for All-NBA honors soon, provided he maintains his form and stays healthy.

Other players like Alperen Sengun and Tyrese Maxey are also on the cusp of earning All-NBA recognition. Sengun’s pivotal role in the Rockets’ rise to the No. 2 seed in the West highlights his potential, while Maxey's scoring ability and supporting role with the 76ers could see him breakthrough in the coming seasons. Meanwhile, Amen Thompson, although expected to take longer to make his mark, showcases defensive prowess that positions him well for future accolades. As the league evolves, the upcoming seasons promise to be exciting, with new talent vying for prestigious honors.

Brian Windhorst has identified Amen Thompson, the Houston Rockets' versatile guard/forward, as a player to watch for a breakout in the upcoming NBA season. Windhorst's prediction stems from Thompson's recent accolade of making the All-Defensive First Team, showcasing his defensive prowess and hinting at his potential for offensive growth.

Thompson is projected to become a key player for the Rockets, contributing to a team that boasted a top-five defense last season. His young age and impressive skill set make him a prime target for teams looking to bolster their rosters, although reports suggest he may be an untouchable asset in trade discussions.