After the unfortunate Fred Vanvriet injury, the Houston Rockets were looking for answers to their point guard problems. The team is trying to solve problems on a committee-by-committee basis, but some specific players stand out for head coach Ime Udoka.
The Houston Rockets have an incredible 2024-25 campaign, finishing the regular season with the second seed in the stacked Western Conference. In the offseason, they made a huge hit deal for Kevin Durant, pushing them even further.
Everyone knew the Rockets were set for a big year, but Fred Vanvriet suddenly suffered from a torn ACL. It takes him into the season. In other words, the rocket lacks veteran point guards.
Head coaches Ime Udoka and The Rockets know they can succeed without Vanvleet. It’s challenging, but the team’s security guards are trying to take advantage of the opportunity to shine for the rocket, including young JD Davison.
With teams filled with star-level talent such as Durant, All-Star Alperencen Senggun and rising star Armentompson, the Rockets still have untapped potential on the roster. Reed Shepherd is a big one considering he is the third overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.
Shepherd seems to be the long-term answer in point guard. He already has solid playmaking skills and high ceilings as a shooter. Unfortunately, he doesn’t get enough reps to become a perennial starter.
Another player impressed by Udoka is JD Davison. Davison and Udoka were once part of the Boston Celtics, but Udoka was unable to coach him as his time in Boston ended prematurely.
Now Udoka has a chance to coach Davidson again. This time with a rocket. A few days together at training camp, Udoka is already impressed by the 23-year-old security guard.
“He was great. He’s very aggressive, he handles well and makes good decisions from the picks and rolls. He’s a big body that can pick up a full courtroom, which brings aggression on both sides of the ball. He took advantage of the opportunity.”
Rocket is used to life without Vanvriet on the floor. Over the past two seasons, they have relied on experienced veterans leading the charges. Now they have to find a way to succeed without him.
Thankfully, Durant’s arrival is also an NBA champion, which eases the blow. He will likely be slotted into the go-to guy role with the Rockets, but Senggun may also be his co-star. The Rockets have a talented roster, and VanVleet’s injuries are the obstacles they are trying to overcome.
It will be a general challenging campaign on their floors, but that will lead to more players stepping up. Thompson is probably an alternative, Shepherd is a good choice, and Davison can also make the most of his opportunities.
Udoka has made a big decision and has seen many positive developments in training camp. If they can continue to grow as a team, Vanvleet’s losses aren’t as important as people think.