The Houston Rockets made headlines this offseason by trading for superstar Kevin Durant, a move that signaled their ambition to transition from a rebuilding team to a legitimate title contender. However, just as the excitement was building for Durant’s debut with the Rockets, the team faced a significant setback: Fred VanVleet, the veteran point guard and key contributor, has suffered a torn ACL. This injury is expected to sideline him for most, if not all, of the 2025-26 NBA season.
VanVleet’s absence is particularly impactful for a Rockets team that had finally found its rhythm after four consecutive seasons of missing the playoffs following the departure of James Harden. Under the guidance of head coach Ime Udoka, the Rockets enjoyed a resurgence last season, finishing second in the Western Conference with a 52-30 record. VanVleet played a pivotal role in this turnaround, providing not only scoring but also leadership and stability in the locker room.
Last season, VanVleet averaged 14.1 points, 5.6 assists, and 3.7 rebounds over 60 games, shooting 37.8% from the field and 34.5% from three-point range. His true value, however, was on display during the playoffs. In a grueling seven-game series against the Golden State Warriors, he elevated his performance, averaging 18.7 points per game while shooting an impressive 43.5% from beyond the arc and a perfect 100% from the free-throw line. His experience and poise were crucial in keeping the Rockets competitive against elite teams.
With VanVleet sidelined, the Rockets face a critical challenge. Not only do they lose their third-best scorer, but they also lose a seasoned playmaker who could manage the offense when Durant needed a breather or faced difficulties. The Rockets will now have to rely on younger, less experienced players like Reed Sheppard, Aaron Holiday, and Amen Thompson to fill the void left by VanVleet.
Thompson, entering his third year, has shown flashes of defensive prowess and athleticism but remains inconsistent on the offensive end. Sheppard, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, possesses shooting potential but lacks the experience needed to thrive in high-pressure situations. Holiday, while a dependable energy player, is not equipped to take on the responsibilities of a starting point guard on a championship-caliber team.
Despite the addition of Durant, VanVleet’s injury raises significant concerns about the Rockets’ depth, consistency, and ability to close out games against top-tier opponents. The Western Conference remains highly competitive, and the margin for error is razor-thin.
The Rockets are set to open the 2025-26 season on October 21 against the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder. To meet the expectations that come with Durant’s presence, Houston will need immediate contributions from its young core to offset the loss of one of its most vital players. The upcoming season will test the Rockets’ resilience and adaptability, as they aim to navigate the challenges posed by VanVleet’s injury while striving for a championship run.