The Houston Rockets have been hit with some unfortunate news as it has been announced that star point guard Fred VanVleet will likely miss the entire 2025-26 season due to injury. This is a huge blow to the Rockets’ plans as VanVleet has been a key player for them in recent years. However, all hope is not lost for the Rockets as they still have options to replace VanVleet and continue their pursuit of success.
Renowned sports analyst Bill Simmons recently listed five potential star point guards that the Rockets could target to fill the void left by VanVleet. While the options may be limited, there are certainly some talented players that could potentially fit in well with the Rockets’ system.
The first name on Simmons’ list is Damian Lillard of the Portland Trail Blazers. Lillard has been a consistent performer for the Blazers and has proven himself to be one of the top point guards in the league. He is a dynamic scorer and playmaker, and his leadership skills would be a valuable asset for the Rockets. However, it may be difficult for the Rockets to acquire Lillard as he is a franchise player for the Blazers and they may not be willing to part ways with him.
Next on the list is Kemba Walker of the Boston Celtics. Walker is a skilled point guard who has shown his ability to lead a team to success. He has a great scoring touch and is also a solid defender. The Rockets could benefit from his experience and leadership, but it remains to be seen if the Celtics would be willing to part ways with him.
Simmons also suggests Kyle Lowry of the Toronto Raptors as a potential target for the Rockets. Lowry is a proven winner and has been a key player for the Raptors in their recent championship run. He is a great all-around player and his experience could be invaluable for the Rockets. However, like Lillard and Walker, it may be difficult for the Rockets to acquire Lowry as he is a vital part of the Raptors’ success.
Another name on the list is Mike Conley of the Utah Jazz. Conley is a veteran point guard who has consistently performed at a high level throughout his career. He is a great playmaker and has a high basketball IQ, which would make him a great fit for the Rockets. However, the Jazz may not be willing to part ways with Conley as he has been a key player for them in recent years.
Lastly, Simmons suggests Jrue Holiday of the Milwaukee Bucks as a potential target for the Rockets. Holiday is a versatile player who can play both guard positions and is known for his tenacious defense. He is also a great playmaker and can score when needed. His skillset would be a great addition to the Rockets’ roster, but it remains to be seen if the Bucks would be willing to let him go.
In conclusion, while the news of VanVleet’s injury is certainly a setback for the Rockets, they still have options to replace him and continue their pursuit of success. The names listed by Bill Simmons are all talented players who could potentially fit in well with the Rockets’ system. It will be interesting to see which direction the Rockets choose to go in and who they ultimately decide to target. One thing is for sure, the Rockets are determined to bounce back from this setback and continue their journey towards success.
