​In line with the latest reports, veteran Houston Rockets guard Fred VanVleet says he remains on track to be ready for the start of the NBA’s 2026-27 season in October. VanVleet sat out the entire 2025-26 campaign after suffering a torn ACL in his right knee in September 2025, but he gave an encouraging update during the summer league in Las Vegas.
At the NBA’s 2026 summer league, VanVleet spoke with Space City Home Network’s Vanessa Richardson about his rehabilitation and prognosis. Regarding his health, the 32-year-old guard said: “It’s going great, I’m right on track. I’m getting stronger and getting better. It’s a slow process. I’m eager and ready to get back out there, but I’ve got to follow protocols. So, I should be good for the start of the season.” He added that the typical timeline for an ACL tear recovery often ranges from nine to 12 months, which means his return would align with the early part of the 2026-27 campaign, as training camp arrives just after that window.
On the rehabilitation front, VanVleet emphasized the ongoing work: “Just getting stronger and trying to get the leg back right. Long days, two-a-days, but we’ve got a great rehab team with the training staff. It’s been a journey, for sure, but I’m ready to get back on the court.” A complete video of his interview is available through the network’s coverage.
During his two seasons in Houston (2023-24 and 2024-25), VanVleet served as the Rockets’ primary point guard, delivering steady production. He averaged 15.9 points per game on 36.9% shooting from three, along with 6.9 assists and 3.8 rebounds per contest. He was also effective in limiting turnovers, posting 1.6 per game in 36.1 minutes, a testament to his decision-making and floor leadership. His defense and leadership remain highly regarded around the league, and his presence is viewed as a stabilizing force for Houston’s backcourt.
If VanVleet is cleared medically, Houston’s projected starting lineup for the 2026-27 season is expected to feature VanVleet at point guard alongside Kevin Durant, Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., and Alperen Şengün. The team would likely lean on key reserves such as Reed Sheppard, Tari Eason, Steven Adams, and newly signed guard Marcus Smart to augment the rotation under coach Ime Udoka.
Houston enters the 2026-27 season aiming to build on its recent regular-season success. The Rockets have posted 52-30 records in consecutive campaigns, though they stumbled in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs in back-to-back years. A central objective for the organization is to address late-game execution and turnover issues that hindered them in postseason play. The addition of a veteran floor general in VanVleet, alongside Durant’s scoring prowess and the continued development of young talents like Thompson, Smith Jr., and Sengün, is viewed as a strategic move to stabilize the lineup and improve closing capabilities.
VanVleet’s health update has drawn attention from Rockets fans and NBA observers alike, who are eager to see him reclaim his form and contribute as the team pursues sustained competitiveness in a deep Western Conference. If he returns to full strength by training camp, Houston’s guard depth and playmaking options could provide a meaningful boost as they navigate the early portion of the season and strive to balance offense with improved defensive intensity.
For the latest on VanVleet’s status and Houston’s roster plans for 2026-27, follow Rockets coverage and official team communications as the season approaches. This report consolidates information from recent statements by VanVleet at the summer league and an overview of his contributions in prior Houston campaigns, highlighting expectations for a return to action and the potential impact on the Rockets’ broader lineup strategy.