Trail Blazers To Throw Wrench In Rockets Pursuit Of Amen Thompson?

The Trail Blazers have an interest in Overtime Elite's Amen Thompson, but could their enthusiasm interfere with the draft plans of the Houston Rockets?

Since the Houston Rockets obtained the No. 4 pick in the NBA Draft Lottery in May, Amen Thompson appeared to be a surefire selection for the Houston Rockets. 

The Rockets held a pre-draft workout with Thompson earlier in the week. And a source told Inside the Rockets that Thompson "was extremely impressive" during his workout in Houston.

But less than 24 hours before the start of the 2023 NBA Draft, The Athletic's Shams Charania reported that the Portland Trail Blazers are strongly considering Thompson over Alabama's Brandon Miller with the No. 3 pick.

Charania said Thompson had a "really strong workout" with the Trail Blazers, and their fondness could throw a wrench into the draft.

"Portland knows that they have to improve this team to keep Damian Lillard..

Amen Thompson had a very strong workout in Portland and he made an impression on them" @ShamsCharania #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/V2fbWuErvR

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) June 22, 2023

There is a lot at stake for the Trail Blazers, and any decision could have significant ramifications for the franchise. Portland is trying to move their lottery pick for an established star to pair with Damian Lillard. But if the Trail Blazers fail to move the draft selection, Lillard could request a trade due to his unwillingness to play for a rebuilding team.

Outside of an off-court issue, Brandon Miller became the top prospect in college basketball during the 2022-23 campaign.

As an SEC Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year honoree, Miller led the Alabama Crimson Tide to a 31-6 record and a spot in the big dance in March. He averaged 18.8 points on .430/.384/.859 shooting splits and 8.2 rebounds in 37 career games.

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You can follow Coty M. Davis on Twitter at @CotyDavis_24

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