Fred VanVleet: Will his ACL injury derail the Rocket’s 2025-26 season?
Fred VanVleet suffers torn ACL in offseason workout. Image Credit: Getty Images
Houston Rockets point guard Fred VanVleet has suffered a torn ACL in his right knee and is expected to miss the entire 2025-26 NBA season, according to reports from ESPN. The devastating setback occurred during a recent team minicamp in the Bahamas, where VanVleet injured his knee in an offseason workout.
The 31-year-old veteran guard will undergo surgery this week, marking a significant blow to Houston’s backcourt depth and playoff ambitions. For a franchise that had regained momentum in the Western Conference, the news has dramatically shifted expectations heading into the new season.
How Serious Is Fred VanVleet’s ACL Injury?
A torn ACL is among the most severe injuries in basketball, often requiring a recovery period of 9 to 12 months. VanVleet’s surgery will determine the exact timeline, but early reports suggest he will likely miss the full 2025-26 season.
The loss of VanVleet, a former All-Star and 2019 NBA Champion with the Toronto Raptors, leaves Houston without its primary floor general. His leadership, defense, and playmaking ability have been central to the Rockets’ turnaround over the past two years.
What VanVleet’s Injury Means for the Rockets’ Season
Houston has been on a steady climb since signing VanVleet in 2023. In just two seasons, he helped the team improve from 22 wins to 52, guiding the Rockets to the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference last season.
Without him, the Rockets face major uncertainty at point guard. Young guard Reed Sheppard, backup Aaron Holiday, and versatile playmaker Amen Thompson are expected to share duties in VanVleet’s absence. ESPN’s Bobby Marks also noted that Houston has limited roster flexibility due to salary cap restrictions, making a mid-season replacement difficult without a trade.
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Fred VanVleet’s Impact Before the Injury
VanVleet averaged 14.1 points and 5.6 assists last season while attempting 7.7 three-pointers per game. Despite shooting just 34.5% from deep, his offensive volume and defensive tenacity gave Houston balance on both ends of the court.
In the 2025 NBA Playoffs, VanVleet elevated his game, averaging 18.7 points per contest, proving his value when it mattered most. Losing him for the year strips Houston of a battle-tested leader with championship pedigree.
What’s Next for Fred VanVleet and the Rockets?
While Fred VanVleet recovers, all eyes will be on Houston’s young core. Amen Thompson’s development could accelerate under increased responsibility, while Sheppard and Holiday will be tested in expanded roles.
For VanVleet, the road ahead is difficult but not unfamiliar, he has built his career on resilience as an undrafted player turned champion. If his recovery stays on track, he could return in time for the 2026-27 season, with a player option waiting in his contract.
FAQs: Fred VanVleet ACL Injury Update
Q1. What happened to Fred VanVleet?
Fred VanVleet tore the ACL in his right knee during a Houston Rockets minicamp workout in the Bahamas.
Q2. Will Fred VanVleet miss the 2025-26 NBA season?
Yes, current reports suggest VanVleet will miss the entire season following surgery.
Q3. When is Fred VanVleet’s surgery?
He is scheduled to undergo surgery this week to repair the torn ligament.
Q4. How long does it take to recover from a torn ACL?
ACL recovery typically ranges from 9 to 12 months, meaning VanVleet is unlikely to return this season.
Q5. Who will replace Fred VanVleet in the Rockets’ lineup?
Reed Sheppard, Aaron Holiday, and Amen Thompson are expected to share point guard duties in his absence.
Q6. How important was VanVleet to the Rockets?
VanVleet was Houston’s starting point guard, averaging 14.1 points and 5.6 assists, and was instrumental in their rise to the No. 2 seed in the West.
Q7. Did VanVleet recently sign a new contract?
Yes. In June 2025, VanVleet signed a two-year, $50 million extension with a player option for the 2026-27 season.
Q8. What does VanVleet’s injury mean for Houston’s playoff hopes?
Without their floor leader, Houston faces an uphill battle in the competitive Western Conference. Success now depends on their young guards stepping up.