The Houston Rockets have a lot of belief in Amen Thompson. Why wouldn't they? His twitchy athleticism puts him in an exclusive club: Thompson is one of one.
That happens to align with the Rockets' vision of their future. Defense has obviously been named a priority in Space City. Hiring Ime Udoka solidified a direction that already made sense given the talent on the Rockets' roster.
Think about it. Houston signed Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks as soon as the money became available. They drafted Jabari Smith Jr. and Tari Eason. It seems evident that the organization insisted on defensive improvement from Alperen Sengun.