Houston Rockets’ star point guard Fred VanVleet is set to miss an extended period, possibly the entire 2025-26 season, after suffering a torn ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament). This devastating blow was confirmed by sources who spoke with ESPN on Monday.

VanVleet, a one-time NBA All-Star and former NBA champion with the Toronto Raptors, joined the Rockets in 2023. In just two seasons, he transformed the franchise from a lottery team to a playoff contender, guiding them to 52 wins and the Western Conference’s No. 2 seed last season.

Prior to the injury, VanVleet had signed a two-year, $50 million extension with Houston, which includes a player option for the 2026-27 season.

Despite posting career-highs in fewest points per game (14.1) in the regular season, VanVleet stepped up in the playoffs, averaging 18.7 points per game. Known for his tenacious defense and playmaking, VanVleet was a key cog in the Rockets’ offense, finishing second on the team in 3-point attempts per game (7.7) last season.

Rumors have circulated about potential trades and signings to bolster the Rockets’ roster in VanVleet’s absence. However, the club is yet to make any official announcements.

<cita cite väheref=”layout” class=”author-box”>Author: Jake O’Brien – Jake is 247Sports’ NBA insider, covering the Rockets and the wider league landscape.

• Look to other guard options such as Jalen Green and Kevin Porter Jr. to shoulder more responsibility.




• Focus on an aggressive defensive strategy to create more opportunities in transition and reduce the strain on the offense.