Houston Rockets guard Fred VanVleet 'feels like a rookie again' in return from knee injury
Houston Rockets guard Fred VanVleet is preparing for a return to the court after a challenging season sidelined by a significant knee injury. During the 2025-26 campaign, VanVleet tore his right ACL and meniscus during a preseason workout in the Bahamas, forcing him to watch from the sidelines as the team made a playoff appearance without him. Despite the Rockets finishing with a 52-30 record and a postseason spot, the absence of their starting point guard left a noticeable void in the backcourt during their first-round series against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Now, fully immersed in his rehabilitation, VanVleet reports that he is feeling closer to his former self. He has been ramping up his on-court activity daily and expects to be available for the team’s upcoming preseason games in Macao. Having exercised his player option for the final year of his contract, he brings a renewed sense of focus and veteran perspective to a roster that also features Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun, and recent additions like Marcus Smart.
Beyond his individual return, VanVleet remains active in his role as president of the National Basketball Players Association. He is currently working with executive director David Kelly to address concerns regarding the league's second apron penalties, which players and agents argue negatively impact team construction. VanVleet views his leadership role as a service to the brotherhood of professional athletes, especially as he navigates the changing nature of the league.
Looking ahead, VanVleet is eager to prove that the Rockets can compete for a championship title. Drawing inspiration from his previous title run in Toronto and recent underdog success stories across the league, he remains dismissive of outside narratives. He emphasizes that the path to success relies on internal consistency rather than public expectations. As he prepares for the new season, VanVleet is focused on regaining his physical edge and leading the Rockets toward a deeper postseason run.