Rockets’ Fred VanVleet Tears ACL, Out for Season

HOUSTON, Texas — Houston Rockets point guard Fred VanVleet has suffered a torn ACL and is expected to miss the entire 2025-26 NBA season, sources told ESPN on Monday.

VanVleet’s injury occurred during a team minicamp in the Bahamas prior to the season, marking a significant setback for the Rockets, who are looking to build on their playoff success from last season. The status of the former NBA champion and All-Star raises concerns regarding the team’s directional playmaking as they gear up for training camp.

In his first season with Houston, VanVleet played 60 games and averaged 14.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 5.6 assists. He played a crucial role in the Rockets’ turnaround, helping the team improve from 22 to 41 wins and ultimately to 52 wins, securing the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference.

Despite his strengths as a hard-nosed defender and playmaker, VanVleet struggled with efficiency, shooting below 40% from the field for the fourth time in his career. He helped lead the Rockets to the playoffs, where they lost to the Golden State Warriors in seven games.

VanVleet signed a two-year, $50 million contract in July, which includes a player option for the 2026-27 season valued at $25 million. This past season, he averaged 18.7 points during the playoffs and was pivotal during the team’s campaign.

As the Rockets look for answers in the backcourt, they may consider options like Russell Westbrook, as the team braces for VanVleet’s absence. Rookie Reed Sheppard, the third overall pick in the 2024 draft, may take on added responsibilities as a ballhandler following VanVleet’s injury.

The Rockets will begin their season without one of their key players as they navigate the challenges ahead.