Houston's Amen Thompson Discussed Amid Playoff Controversy
HOUSTON – The scrutiny is on Houston’s Amen Thompson after a controversial incident in Game 2, where Warriors’ star Jimmy Butler III suffered a frightening fall. Questions about Thompson’s sportsmanship arose as the Rockets guard took Butler’s legs out beneath him with a hard foul.
Dillon Brooks, Thompson’s teammate, chimed in with his perspective on the accusations during a Friday interview before Game 3. “If you’re calling someone dirty, that’d be Draymond Green for giving an everyday nudge,” Brooks expressed. “It’s all part of the game—Jimmy was fighting for a rebound in mid-air. Amen isn’t a dirty player, not in the slightest.”
Ahead of Saturday’s clash at Chase Center, Butler was labeled as questionable. Medical checks revealed a pelvic injury and a deep contusion in his gluteal muscle, the team reported. The first-round series sits at 1-1 following a 109-94 defeat in which Butler sustained these injuries.
On the awards front, Green was recently honored with the 2024-25 NBA Hustle Award.
Brooks emphasized that the Rockets are keeping their eyes on the prize and not on the media chatter. “We’re not dwelling on that,” he said. “Our priority is the upcoming game, and we wish Jimmy a swift recovery.”
Responding to the controversy, Golden State’s coach Steve Kerr mentioned post-game that he didn’t deem Thompson’s actions malicious. “It seemed like one of those incidental plays,” Kerr remarked. “We didn’t see any ill intent.”
Upon hearing Brooks’ comment labeling Green as dirty, Kerr responded, “Dillon said that? Interesting.”
Guard Moses Moody couldn’t hold back a subtle laugh when notified about Brooks’ statement. “Isn’t that a bit ironic?” he mused.
Houston head coach Ime Udoka also weighed in on Friday regarding Thompson’s actions. “It’s clear it wasn’t on purpose,” Udoka stated. “Considering all the contact involved, with Thompson getting bumped around and the awkward way he fell, it’s not plausible to think he aimed for someone’s face on purpose.”