The Houston Rockets are well-positioned to contend for a title after acquiring 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant in a trade with the Phoenix Suns this offseason, though they may have to do so without Fred VanVleet.
VanVleet suffered a torn ACL in a recent offseason workout and is in danger of missing the entire 2025-26 campaign. While the Rockets still have a stacked rotation with a mix of rising stars and veteran firepower, VanVleet is a significant loss.
Amen Thompson is expected to take on more ball-handling responsibilities with VanVleet on the shelf, while Reed Sheppard and Aaron Holiday are likely to see increased roles. Durant’s leadership and overall skillset will now be even more crucial for the Rockets, who are in win-now mode following the Durant trade.
MORE: Rockets' Kevin Durant teases potential career change after retirement
NBA insider speaks on Kevin Durant trade, Fred VanVleet injury
NBA insider Zach Lowe was asked on his show Wednesday if he believes Durant would have still chosen Houston as a preferred landing spot if VanVleet was already injured.
“I’m going to say, still yes, because I just think Kevin Durant’s one of those guys who’s like… I can make it work if this is where I want to be. I’m not a Fred VanVleet away from making it work,” Lowe said.
More pressure will be placed on Durant after VanVleet’s injury, though that seemingly wouldn’t have changed the fact that Houston is where he wanted to be. The Texas product worked with the Suns to pick a shortlist of preferred spots, and Houston’s roster still gives him a chance to contend even with VanVleet sidelined.
Regardless of hypothetical scenarios, Durant will look to remain productive in the twilight of his career and lead the Rockets to their first title since 1995.
More NBA News:
- 76ers trade pitch sends Tyrese Maxey to Western Conference contender
- D'Angelo Russell announces incredible personal news ahead of Mavericks season
- Ex-Bucks Star Damian Lillard reveals return timeline with IShowSpeed
- Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo gets brutally honest on international future
- NBA insider predicts Jonathan Kuminga's next steps amid Warriors' $75 million offer