TITLE: Rockets survey trade market after Fred VanVleet suffers torn ACL
SLUG: rockets-explore-options-following-vanvleet-acl-injury
CONTENT:
Houston’s offseason momentum hit a major setback when starting point guard Fred VanVleet sustained a torn ACL shortly before training camp, removing a key piece of the club’s newly formed core.
The injury arrived just weeks after the Rockets bolstered their roster by trading for Kevin Durant and signing forward Dorian Finney-Smith, moves that pushed the team into early title conversations.
With VanVleet unavailable, head coach Ime Udoka is expected to open camp giving rookie Amen Thompson primary ball-handling duties while fellow first-rounder Reed Sheppard could see an expanded role. Even so, league insiders believe Houston will examine trade possibilities for a more seasoned floor general.
Ten guards linked to Houston
In a column for CBS Sports, reporter Brad Botkin listed 10 players who might fit Houston’s needs if general manager Rafael Stone decides to deal:
- Derrick White, Celtics: A two-way starter comparable to Jrue Holiday. Boston is unlikely to engage, but Houston holds enough draft capital to ask.
- Andrew Nembhard, Pacers: Viewed as a potential championship-level starter. Indiana could listen if Sheppard or other young pieces are offered.
- Jrue Holiday, Trail Blazers: Older and on a three-year, $105 million deal, yet more attainable than White. Portland might seek a new destination.
- CJ McCollum, Wizards: Proven scorer who can initiate offense in closing minutes. His expiring contract preserves future cap flexibility.
- Payton Pritchard, Celtics: Undersized but energetic on both ends. Botkin considers him an immediate version of what Sheppard could become.
- Jose Alvarado, Pelicans: Defensive spark who could thrive alongside Houston’s existing guards without needing star-level minutes.
- Collin Sexton, Hornets: Instant offense on an expiring agreement. Houston would need to weigh paying acquisition cost now and re-signing later.
- Ty Jerome, Grizzlies: Showed clutch potential in Cleveland. Memphis recently signed him, yet could be persuaded if Houston parts with a contributor such as Tari Eason.
- Scotty Pippen Jr., Grizzlies: Low-cost, defensive-minded option. A future first-round pick might bring him to Texas if negotiations intensify.
- Anfernee Simons, Celtics: High-volume scorer on an expiring deal. His salary lines up closely with VanVleet’s number, easing trade mechanics.
The Rockets have not indicated a timetable for VanVleet’s recovery or announced formal trade discussions, but multiple league sources expect the front office to evaluate the market before opening night.
Source: Hoops Wire
