Rockets Struggle Without VanVleet as Team Faces Timberwolves

HOUSTON, Texas — The Houston Rockets entered Friday’s matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves on a downward spiral, losing seven of their last nine games and grappling with the absence of star point guard Fred VanVleet. VanVleet’s right ankle strain, sustained on Feb. 1, has significantly impacted the team’s performance, with head coach Ime Udoka announcing he would miss at least two more games before potentially returning next week.

VanVleet, 30, participated in parts of Thursday’s practice following the All-Star break but reported soreness, prompting the Rockets to err on the side of caution. “He needs to have some contact and some up-and-down scrimmaging,” Udoka explained. He assessed VanVleet’s recovery at “80 percent,” adding, “He did quite a bit over the break, but that’s different than getting out there playing.”

The Rockets (34-21) have struggled to gain momentum in February, registering a 2-6 record this month while attempting to adapt to VanVleet’s absence. Second-year guard Amen Thompson, who started most of those games, has stepped up to fill the role, alongside forward Tari Eason. Thompson had not been a starter at the beginning of the season but has proved essential in recent weeks.

Following practice on Monday, the team plans to evaluate VanVleet’s status before a back-to-back matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks and San Antonio Spurs next week. “We’ll see how he feels after practice,” Udoka said.

Despite the recent struggles, the Rockets remain optimistic. “After spending much of the pre-All-Star portion of the season in second place, the Houston Rockets have shown plenty of signs of their youth recently,” noted Bleacher Report’s Andy Bailey. He pointed out that the team’s two recent victories came against underperforming opponents, the Toronto Raptors and Phoenix Suns.

The Timberwolves (39-16) sit near the top of the Western Conference and hope to maintain their winning trajectory despite dealing with injuries to key players, including Anthony Edwards. Coach Chris Finch expressed confidence in his team’s adaptability: “I think you are who you are at that point in time,” he said. “But coming back, you get hyper-focused on the things you can improve.”

Raw talent has shone through for both teams, making the upcoming game crucial. The Rockets’ performance against Minnesota will largely depend on VanVleet’s readiness. If he returns to the lineup, it could invigorate Houston’s struggling offense. In contrast, if Edwards suits up for the Timberwolves, the game could serve as a test of depth for both rosters amid mounting injuries.

The matchup is set for Thursday, with tipoff scheduled for 8:30 p.m. CT, as the Rockets aim to turn their season around at home against a formidable Timberwolves unit.