Fred VanVleet Poised for a Strong Comeback Season with the Rockets
Houston Rockets point guard Fred VanVleet struggled offensively last season, but expectations are high for a bounce-back year. Heading into the offseason, there were questions about whether VanVleet would return to the team. Originally, he had a $40 million team option for the 2025-26 season, but with the addition of Kevin Durant, it seemed unlikely that Houston would pick it up. The Rockets ultimately declined his option but re-signed him for two more years at $50 million, allowing the team to save money and stay under the first apron as Alperen Sengun’s extension kicks in this year.
VanVleet’s drop-off in performance last season wasn’t expected to warrant the $40 million, considering his age and production. The former All-Star averaged 14.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 5.5 assists. While these numbers aren’t terrible, his shooting percentages were concerning—37.8% from the field and 34.5% from three-point range. However, he was a standout performer in the playoffs. Despite Houston’s loss to the Golden State Warriors in the first round, VanVleet stepped up, averaging 18.7 points, 4.4 assists, and 4.1 rebounds, with an impressive 43% shooting from the field. He shone especially in Game 4, Game 5, and Game 6, scoring over 20 points in each of those games.
With Kevin Durant now leading the Rockets, VanVleet is expected to have a more balanced role, likely as the third or fourth scoring option. This should ease the pressure on him to score at a high clip. The 31-year-old has made his mark not just as a scorer, but also as a playmaker and defender. His best passing season came in 2024 when he averaged 8.1 assists, and he also posted a surprising 1.8 steals per game in 2023 despite being just six feet tall.
This season, VanVleet’s role will likely focus more on facilitating rather than being the primary star. With Durant at the helm, the Rockets’ offense is set to be more well-rounded. Last season, Houston leaned heavily on Jalen Green, but inconsistencies in his performance hurt the team. Durant, who averaged 26.6 points last season on outstanding shooting splits (53-43-84), brings a new level of scoring to the Rockets. In addition, the team added experienced players like Dorian Finney-Smith and Clint Capela, both known for their two-way contributions. Finney-Smith, in particular, is one of the NBA’s top 3-and-D players.
Second-year guard Reed Sheppard, drafted No. 3 overall in 2024 for his shooting ability, is expected to take on more responsibilities and continue to develop. With the added depth and Durant’s presence, the Rockets are poised for an improved season, with VanVleet positioned for a bounce-back campaign.
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