Houston Rockets star point guard Fred VanVleet has reportedly suffered a torn ACL and could miss the entirety of the 2025-26 NBA season, as sources indicated to ESPN. This significant injury was sustained during a recent offseason workout, raising immediate concerns for the Rockets' upcoming campaign. VanVleet, a respected nine-year veteran, a one-time All-Star, and a 2019 NBA champion with the Toronto Raptors, has been instrumental in the Houston Rockets' recent resurgence, helping to transform them from a consistent lottery team into a legitimate playoff contender in his two seasons with the franchise.

VanVleet signed a two-year, $50 million extension with the Rockets in June, a deal that notably includes a player option for the 2026-27 season. His initial tenure began in the summer of 2023 when he signed a three-year deal. His immediate impact was evident as he helped Houston improve from 22 wins to 41 in his inaugural year. Last season, the Rockets continued their impressive trajectory, winning 52 games and securing the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference, thereby ending a four-year postseason drought that had plagued the team.

During the 2024-25 season, VanVleet averaged 14.1 points, which marked his fewest points in a season since 2018-19. However, he consistently elevated his play in the postseason, averaging 18.7 points per game in the playoffs. Known for his hard-nosed defense, VanVleet's offensive contributions primarily stem from his strong playmaking abilities and his willingness to take high-volume three-point shots. This past season, he was second on the team in three-point attempts per game, with an average of 7.7. Despite these strengths, VanVleet has historically struggled with efficiency, shooting below 40% from the field in 2024-25, which marks the fourth occurrence in his career. His career averages stand at 14.9 points and 5.7 assists.

With VanVleet sidelined, the Rockets will now place their immediate focus at the point guard position on emerging talents such as Reed Sheppard and Aaron Holiday, alongside the franchise's ascending two-way stalwart, Amen Thompson. The team also faces roster challenges; according to ESPN's Bobby Marks, Houston is currently $1.25 million below the first apron, which prevents them from filling their one open roster spot with a free agent, barring any trade activity. This injury not only impacts VanVleet's individual career but also presents a significant strategic challenge for the Rockets as they navigate the upcoming season without their primary floor general.