Rockets Spark Uproar With Stunning Amen Thompson Trade to Bucks — Internal Turmoil Follows Departure of Rising Star to Milwaukee
In a shocking move that has sent ripples through the NBA, the Houston Rockets have traded second-year guard Amen Thompson to the Milwaukee Bucks, a deal that is already generating significant backlash from fans and reportedly causing unrest within the organization. The trade, which includes draft compensation and a veteran player from Milwaukee, marks a dramatic turning point for Houston’s rebuild and raises questions about the direction of the franchise.
Amen Thompson, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, quickly established himself as one of the most promising young players in the league. Known for his elite athleticism, defensive instincts, and improving playmaking skills, Thompson was widely seen as a cornerstone of Houston’s future. His dynamic presence in the backcourt brought energy, versatility, and upside to a team focused on youth development and long-term growth.
But in a bold—some say reckless—decision, Rockets General Manager Rafael Stone pulled the trigger on a trade that sends Thompson to Milwaukee in exchange for veteran guard Pat Connaughton, a 2026 first-round pick (top-10 protected), and cash considerations. The deal appears to be aimed at clearing future cap space and bringing in playoff experience, but critics argue it sacrifices a franchise-altering talent far too soon.
Sources close to the team suggest the trade has caused “significant internal disagreement” among Rockets staff, with some members of the front office and coaching staff reportedly blindsided by the move. “There’s frustration,” said one anonymous team source. “Amen was doing everything the organization asked of him, and now he’s gone with no clear plan B.”
Fan reaction has been swift and furious. Social media erupted with disbelief, with #FreeAmen and #WhatAreTheRocketsDoing trending within hours of the news breaking. Many Rockets fans see the trade as a betrayal of the youth-first rebuild strategy the franchise has championed since the James Harden era ended.
From the Bucks’ perspective, the acquisition of Amen Thompson could be a masterstroke. Milwaukee, already a contender with Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard at the helm, gains a young, defensive-minded guard who can develop under the mentorship of established stars. The deal provides them with fresh legs, athleticism, and a future backcourt option as Lillard ages.
Yet, the long-term impact of this deal hinges on Thompson’s development and how Houston leverages its return. If the first-round pick fails to yield a comparable talent or if Connaughton’s veteran presence doesn’t meaningfully contribute to team culture or wins, the Rockets risk being haunted by this move for years.
For now, the franchise faces a pivotal moment. Will the Rockets recalibrate and prove doubters wrong with strategic moves ahead? Or has this shocking trade derailed what was once a promising rebuild? Only time will tell—but one thing is clear: the Rockets have ignited a firestorm, and there’s no turning back.
