Rockets star Fred VanVleet could miss the entire season with torn ACL

Shams Charania dropped a bombshell Monday night, reporting that Fred VanVleet tore his ACL during an offseason workout, stunning news that no one around the league saw coming, especially Rockets fans.

Houston now finds itself in a financial bind, sitting just $1.25 million under the first apron, which prevents the team from simply using its lone open roster spot on a free agent unless a trade clears room. Notable names still on the market include Russell Westbrook, Ben Simmons, and Cam Payne.

It’s a crushing setback for a Rockets squad that went all-in this summer by bringing in Kevin Durant. Losing a steady, championship-tested guard like VanVleet dramatically changes Houston's outlook heading into the new season.

With Fred VanVleet sidelined, the Rockets may be forced to lean heavier on former No. 3 overall pick Reed Sheppard, who saw limited action as a rookie last season. That’s still a far cry from having a proven floor general with championship pedigree.

A return for VanVleet in 2025-26 seems highly unlikely, meaning Houston will have to roll with its current group unless the front office swings a deal. The team does have an abundance of wings that could be used as trade chips to bring in a temporary solution at guard.