Report: Rockets, VanVleet could miss the entire 2025/26 season

A major setback for the Houston Rockets. The franchise will likely have to face the 2025/26 season without Fred VanVleet. The player has reportedly suffered a torn ACL, and according to Shams Charania (ESPN), he could miss the entire season. It’s a huge blow both for VanVleet — who had just re-signed with the Rockets on a two-year, $50 million deal — and for a young team on the rise that was counting on his experience to establish itself among the Western Conference elite.

Despite an underwhelming individual season in terms of efficiency, Houston posted an impressive 41-19 record with VanVleet on the court, underscoring his tactical and mental value to the team. With the former NBA champion sidelined, key opportunities now open up for the roster’s young prospects — most notably Reed Sheppard, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 Draft, who had seen limited minutes so far. Amen Thompson could also see his role grow as a primary ball handler, while Aaron Holiday — currently the only true point guard available — is likely to get more consistent playing time. Still, VanVleet’s absence may have a major impact on the team’s balance, and it will be crucial to see if Ime Udoka’s young group can handle the pressure in a season that now looks far more challenging.