Fred VanVleet’s playmaking keeps paying off for the Rockets

Swoosh Shrestha of Space City Scoop highlights Fred VanVleet's playmaking as a major driving force behind the Houston Rockets' revitalized offense early in the season. VanVleet is averaging seven assists per game across his first three appearances, which has enhanced ball movement and created better scoring and secondary playmaking opportunities for his teammates.

The writer notes that VanVleet's presence has directly benefited center Alperen Sengun, who is also averaging seven assists per game off short-roll reads, and Kevin Durant, who is shooting 54 percent from the field. Shrestha argues that VanVleet's facilitation helps solve late-game offensive issues that plagued Houston last season, positioning the Rockets as legitimate contenders.