Fred VanVleet, the Houston Rockets’ veteran point guard and arguably one of their most important leaders, has suffered a torn ACL. Multiple sources, including ESPN’s Shams Charania, confirm the injury.
This came as a huge blow because VanVleet was expected to play a major role in the Rockets’ 2025-26 run. Just this offseason, he signed a two-year, $50 million contract extension.
The timing couldn’t be worse: this report surfaces only a month before the season opener. Recovery from a torn ACL usually takes between 6 to 12 months depending on the severity, the success of surgery, rehab, and how VanVleet’s body responds.
What the Rockets Lose Without VanVleet
VanVleet isn’t just any guard. He’s been the floor general, the glue-guy, somebody who helps make the rest of the roster work. Last season, he averaged about 14.1 points, 5.6 assists, and 3-4 rebounds per game while playing nearly 36 minutes a game. He also helped the Rockets to a solid 52-30 season, finishing tied for second in the Western Conference.
Without him, Houston loses:
- Leadership: VanVleet is known for his veteran savvy, guiding younger players and making tough decisions in game moments.
- Playmaking: He helps run the offense, sets pace, and draws attention that frees up teammates.
- Perimeter defense and toughness: VanVleet is scrappy, defends well, and has been reliable in clutch situations.
Potential Roster Moves & Who Steps Up
Given the loss, the Rockets will likely need to lean more on backup guards and young talent. Here’s how that might play out:
- Reed Sheppard: The young guard is expected to see more minutes. He showed promise, but this is a big leap in responsibility.
- Amen Thompson: Another young guard who might get an opportunity to prove himself. The injury could accelerate his development.
- Aaron Holiday: As a veteran, he could see expanded run and be asked to steady the ship when needed.
Houston might also explore external help: free agents or trades, though with limited cap space and already invested resources, major moves might be tough.
What It Means for Rockets’ Season Outlook
Here’s what the injury likely does to the Rockets’ projections:
- Championship hopes take a hit. With VanVleet out, the ceiling drops since chemistry and veteran leadership suffer.
- The team may still aim for a deep playoff berth, relying heavily on Kevin Durant, Alperen Şengün, and the supporting cast.
- Expectations might shift: instead of being favorites, the Rockets might be seen more as dark horses depending on how well young guards fill in.
Final Thoughts & What to Watch
What’s next is keeping an eye on:
- How the rehab goes. If VanVleet recovers quicker, he might still contribute late in the season.
- How Houston adjusts their rotation, both in backup guard usage and possibly design changes to ease pressure without their starting point guard.
- Whether the front office will make a supplemental move (trade or sign someone) to mitigate this loss.
- How this injury impacts team morale. Sometimes losing a leader like VanVleet shakes confidence; other times, it galvanizes a locker room.
VanVleet’s torn ACL is a serious setback, no doubt. For the Rockets, the upcoming season will be as much about adapting and surviving as it will be about contending. With his absence, a lot more responsibility falls on younger players and supporting stars. Whether Houston can maintain momentum and compete without him is now the big question.