The Houston Rockets announced that guard Fred VanVleet underwent successful surgery to repair a torn ACL in his right knee. The procedure was performed by Dr. Walter Lowe at Memorial Hermann.
VanVleet suffered the injury during a recent offseason workout, raising concerns about his availability for the 2025–26 season.
The 29-year-old guard had just signed a two-year, $50 million contract extension with the Rockets in June, including a player option for the 2026–27 season. His injury now casts uncertainty on the team’s backcourt plans.
VanVleet played a key role in Houston’s turnaround last season, averaging 14.1 points, 5.6 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. His contributions helped the Rockets finish with 52 wins, secure the second seed, and reach the playoffs for the first time in four years.
The veteran guard also recorded a Game 7 performance against the Golden State Warriors in the quarterfinals, helping maintain the franchise’s postseason run. VanVleet earned his first NBA championship with the Toronto Raptors in 2019 and has been named an All-Star once.
With VanVleet sidelined, other guards on the Rockets’ roster will be tasked with stepping up. Players like Reed Sheppard and Aaron Holiday are expected to take on larger roles to help sustain Houston’s playoff ambitions.
The Rockets have yet to provide a timetable for VanVleet’s recovery, but ACL injuries typically require several months of rehabilitation before a player can return to full competition.
