Fred VanVleet Returns From Injury To Boost Houston Backcourt

Fred VanVleet expects to be ready for the start of the 2026-27 NBA season after missing all of last year with a torn ACL. His return is considered the biggest question mark for the Houston Rockets, who struggled with playmaking depth during a first-round playoff exit following their Kevin Durant acquisition. At age 32, VanVleet's leadership and point guard stability are expected to unlock the Rockets' offense and help the team challenge for the top tier of the Western Conference.