The Houston Rockets’ biggest problem last season was their lack of scoring. They addressed that by acquiring Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns. Durant is a walking 25 points a night, and his scoring ability will open up the floor so much for Houston.
Along with the development of Amen Thompson and Alperen Sengun, the Rockets have all the pieces they need to have a formidable offensive attack. However, that formidability will be put to the test this season, with a key piece out for the year.
Fred VanVleet’s absence could hurt the Rockets
VanVleet was Houston’s only chance at offense last playoffs against Golden State. He averaged 19 points per game four assists and shot 43 percent from three-point range on nine attempts per game. He was the Rockets’ only consistent perimeter threat in a series they extended to seven games.
VanVleet is also one of the team’s leaders, and players have called him the heartbeat of the roster. With the addition of Durant, his life was expected to be easier as a floor general and floor spacer. With VanVleet tearing his ACL, that leaves a giant hole in Houston’s backcourt, and a lot was added to the plate of not only Durant but the Rockets’ other guards as well.
Thompson will likely play a lot more point guard this year, and he showed last year in stretches that he could be a lead ball handler. He has also reportedly worked tirelessly on his jumper this offseason, which is a key part of his development.
The question is can Thompson operate as a point guard for 30 minutes a night, and how will he keep the Rockets organized offensively, as that was one of VanVleet’s best traits?
In addition to Thompson, more will be asked of second-year guard Reed Sheppard. Sheppard was the third overall pick in the 2024 draft, and he did not play a lot last season given Houston’s surprise ascension in the West and stacked rotation.
Sheppard also wasn’t ready for NBA-level physicality, especially defensively. Now, instead of being brought along slowly, he will be thrust into an early-season role. Is he ready for that?
The Rockets must fix their point guard problem at the trade deadline
Right now, Houston’s best options at point guard include Thompson, Sheppard, and Aaron Holiday. Out of that group, Thompson is the best option, but he will already have so much on his plate, so getting another reliable option would be best.
A few options that could become available at the deadline are Markelle Fultz of Sacramento, Anfernee Simons of Boston, Jose Alvarado of New Orleans, and CJ McCollum of Washington.
The Rockets have championship expectations this season, and while they do not need to make a move now, they will need to address their lack of point guard depth. If they don’t, it could compromise their chances at a deep run.