TITLE: VanVleet Shifts to Coaching Role as Rockets Assess Backcourt, Sengun’s Range, and Udoka’s Impact
SLUG: vanvleet-coaching-role-rockets-backcourt-sengun-udoka
CONTENT:
HOUSTON — Less than a month after undergoing surgery to repair a torn ACL, guard Fred VanVleet attended Thursday’s practice in a coaching capacity, offering on-court guidance to his young Houston Rockets teammates.
Veteran Voice Returns
Rookies Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard, who have absorbed primary playmaking duties during VanVleet’s absence, said the 31-year-old’s presence was immediately felt.
“It’s already like the old days,” Thompson said, noting that he peppered VanVleet with questions about floor management. Sheppard added that VanVleet discussed screening angles and the importance of slowing the offense when necessary. “I’ve learned so much from him. Having him back on the court, speaking what he sees, is really special,” Sheppard said.
A team source indicated VanVleet may travel on next week’s two-game trip to Toronto and Boston.
Debate Over Point Guard Depth
League executives and scouts remain split on whether Houston needs to acquire an additional veteran point guard while VanVleet rehabs, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reported. One evaluator questioned Sheppard’s defense, calling it “tough to play him at times,” while another executive expressed confidence in the former No. 3 overall pick. “You can focus on what he can’t do, but all he’s done is overcome doubters. Just give him time,” the executive said.
Sengun Stretches the Floor
Center Alperen Sengun, who connected on just 21 three-pointers last season, went 5-for-8 from beyond the arc in Tuesday’s win over Oklahoma City. Opposing scouts told ESPN’s Tim Bontemps that they remain cautious about the sustainability of Sengun’s perimeter shooting but are convinced his court vision and shot creation have taken a leap. “He’s thinking the game at a higher level than a lot of his teammates,” one scout said.
Udoka’s Influence Draws Interest
After several rebuilding seasons, Houston is again viewed as an attractive landing spot, The Houston Chronicle reported, with head coach Ime Udoka cited as a key factor. Veteran center Clint Capela, who rejoined the Rockets in free agency this summer, said Udoka’s direct approach was a major draw. “He’s tough—he’s gonna tell you stuff right away,” Capela explained, adding that such accountability helps players push through fatigue and minor injuries over the course of an 82-game season.
The Rockets open their two-game road swing early next week, where VanVleet’s potential presence on the bench could further bolster a youthful roster continuing to adjust in his absence.
Source: Hoops Rumors
