Fred VanVleet’s recovery update brings a measured dose of optimism to the Houston Rockets’ early season narrative. The veteran guard, tore his ACL during offseason workouts in The Bahamas, spoke with reporters for the first time this week, detailing a patient but determined approach to his rehabilitation.
For a Rockets team still adjusting to life without its veteran point guard, VanVleet’s presence and perspective remain vital. While the timeline for his return is uncertain, his commitment to recovery and mentorship continues to shape Houston’s locker room.
Fred VanVleet Provides New Update on His ACL Recovery Progress
The average recovery time for NBA players with ACL injuries typically exceeds nine months, which would likely extend beyond the 2025-26 regular season and possibly the 2026 NBA Finals. In fact, the Rockets plan to apply for a Disabled Players Exception in the wake of VanVleet’s injury, suggesting that he won’t return until next season.
Even so, VanVleet is taking a disciplined, week-by-week approach to rehabbing his surgically-repaired right knee. “I finally ditched crutches after a couple weeks, and that was a big moment for me,” he says (h/t The Rockets Wire). “I’m taking it slow and day by day. It’s definitely a week-by-week thing.”
The 30-year-old admitted that being sidelined has been difficult, especially after establishing himself as the team’s leader. “It’s tough to be out,” he continues. “I know how much work I put in and what I mean to this team. The worst part is not being out there with the guys.”
Rockets Value VanVleet’s Veteran Leadership
Known for his meticulous preparation and professionalism, VanVleet’s embraced a mentorship role with Houston’s young guards. Rockets head coach Ime Udoka praised the guard’s leadership, noting how he “sets a daily standard” even while sidelined. Despite being unable to play, he’s remained fully engaged, attending team practices and shootarounds to support teammates such as Reed Sheppard and Amen Thompson.
With that in mind, both of the Rockets’ young playmakers have assumed greater ball-handling responsibilities in his absence. Thompson has even been starting at point guard after primarily playing in the frontcourt last season. As a result, the veteran’s continued involvement helps stabilize a Rockets backcourt that has experienced early-season inconsistency.
Houston entered the year expecting VanVleet’s steady hand to guide their offense alongside Kevin Durant and Alperen Sengun. Now, the focus has shifted toward development.
VanVleet’s voice serves as the bridge between raw talent and organized execution. His calm demeanor and detailed understanding of game flow have become a teaching tool during film sessions and practices, reinforcing the idea that leadership doesn’t vanish when a player leaves the court.
The Road Ahead and What Comes Next
As previously mentioned, though VanVleet didn’t offer a definitive return date, medical history suggests that a full comeback by late 2025 or early 2026 is unlikely. Instead, the possibility of returning at the start of the 2026-27 season appears more realistic, especially if the Rockets are prioritizing his long-term health.
VanVleet’s contract includes a $25 million player option for that season, effectively providing a safety net as he navigates rehab. It ensures financial security while allowing him to take the time necessary to recover fully.
For now, VanVleet remains focused on rebuilding strength and mobility while contributing in any way he can. His professionalism has already made a strong impression on Houston’s locker room, setting the tone for a team still defining its identity. As he put it: “You deal with it, and you’ve got to play the cards that you’re dealt.”
For the Rockets, those cards still include one of the league’s most respected voices, guiding the next generation even from the sidelines.
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