Rockets guard considered a potential trade candidate

The Houston Rockets are officially all in for next season after swinging a blockbuster trade that landed them Kevin Durant. After a strong season in 2024-25 that saw them win 52 games and finish second in the Western Conference, the Rockets are looking to take that next step towards contention.

Many have speculated that the Rockets could have another big trade up their sleeve as the start of training camp nears. Jed Katz of Sports Illustrated recently suggested that Rockets guard Fred VanVleet could be at risk of being traded.

“The point guard improved his production in the playoffs, but Houston still restructured his contract rather than picking up his $40 million player option,” Katz said. “This not only gives the Rockets wiggle room in terms of payroll, but in the scenario they'd want to flip him for assets.”

“At 31 years old, VanVleet's prime may be behind him, which may make it tough for him to produce alongside Durant, Alperen Sengun and other weapons,” Katz added. “This will be a make-or-break year for VanVleet if he wants to stay out of trade rumors.”

VanVleet is coming off of a bit of a disappointing season in 2024-25. The 31-year-old averaged just 14.1 points and 5.6 assists per game, both the lowest marks of his career since 2018-19. He also saw his three-point percentage dip to 34.5 percent, the lowest mark of his career. Now on the wrong side of 30-years-old, it appears that VanVleet’s best days are behind him, making him a possible trade candidate for an up-and-coming Rockets team.