Fred VanVleet’s shooting and passing were the missing element for the Rockets

The Rockets offense already looks a lot better with Fred VanVleet back to run it.

By Swoosh Shrestha · Space City Scoop

Published: Tuesday, 13 October 2026 at 2:31 AM

Key Things to Know

Swoosh Shrestha argues Fred VanVleet's shooting and passing address key offensive needs for the Rockets.
VanVleet posted 17 points and seven assists against the Mavericks in his first NBA action in 523 days.
All of VanVleet's field goal attempts came from beyond the arc, converting five of 12 shots.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Fred VanVleet returned to NBA action for the first time in 523 days during the Houston Rockets' preseason opener against the Dallas Mavericks in Macao. The veteran point guard recorded 17 points and seven assists in 24 minutes, converting 5-of-12 three-point attempts with zero shots taken inside the arc.

Writer Swoosh Shrestha argues that VanVleet's perimeter shooting and steady playmaking provided the essential elements missing from Houston's offense last season. Shrestha notes that VanVleet and teammate Kevin Durant are now fully healthy after both missed time with injuries during the previous playoff campaign.

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Fred VanVleet’s shooting and passing were the missing element for the Rockets

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