Houston Rockets have not closed the door on a possible return this season for Fred VanVleet, according to reporting from Marc Stein of The Stein Line.
While the veteran guard faces a long recovery, the organization has stopped short of ruling him out for the entire 2025–26 campaign.
VanVleet suffered a torn ACL and underwent surgery on September 25, an injury that immediately cast uncertainty over his availability this year.
As he continues the rehabilitation process, there is internal optimism that a late-season comeback could be realistic, depending on how his recovery progresses.
In the meantime, Houston has been awarded a $12.5 million Disabled Player Exception tied to VanVleet’s injury, giving the front office added flexibility as it navigates roster decisions during his absence.
Prior to the setback, VanVleet remained a steady contributor, averaging 14.1 points and 5.6 assists last season while providing leadership and structure to the Rockets’ backcourt.
