Rockets overreactions: Fred VanVleet’s return makes Houston actual NBA title contenders appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
In a 128-110 win over the Dallas Mavericks, Fred VanVleet and the 2026-27 Houston Rockets got off to a strong start, giving fans their first look at their pairing with All-Star Kevin Durant. It had been 535 days since VanVleet last played for the Rockets. Jabari Smith Jr. and Durant led with 30 points, and Fred added 11 assists to his six points in the 18-point win.
VanVleet undoubtedly filled a void in the Rockets’ backcourt that was missed last season. He nursed a torn right ACL injury throughout 2025-26, and now that the Rockets have their facilitator back, fans can already see the difference. On his way to tallying 11 assists, VanVleet finished with zero turnovers, and Houston finished 53.4% from the field.
With VanVleet, the Rockets’ offense looked much more fluid. On defense, Houston thrived with its leading guard constantly pressuring the ball. VanVleet finished with three steals, helping the Rockets score 32 points off 21 Mavericks turnovers. Houston’s lead ballooned to 37 as it dominated the Mavericks in the final three quarters, including a 38-12 second-quarter run.
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The Rockets are on pace to become title contenders with Fred VanVleet back. With the defending Western Conference champion San Antonio Spurs and the 2025 champion Oklahoma City Thunder leading the conference and having the best chances of winning a title in 2027, the Rockets will have to hang their hat on defense this season.
VanVleet anchors Houston’s defense. His return changes things defensively in the backcourt, as it does for the Rockets’ offense, led by a champion point guard paired with arguably the best scorer he’s ever played with. VanVleet also did a great job getting clean looks for Smith Jr., who connected on 11-of-17 attempts, including four triples.
He was as efficient as Durant, who finished 10-for-16, including a pair of threes. It’s no coincidence the Rockets’ leading scorers found their offense early and often. What the Rockets lacked last season, VanVleet, is back and ready to help reshape the team into a championship contender.
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