Fred VanVleet helps the Houston coach practice after the season-opening loss to the Thunder

After Houston The Rockets lost a season-opening thriller in double overtime — 125-124 — to the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder, Fred VanVleet went into coaching mode. Vanlett tore his ACL during offseason minicamp and is expected to miss the entire regular season. However, without physically participating in the entire action, he made his presence felt on the field.

VanVleet offered advice to his teammates on the floor, according to the Rockets beat writer Danielle Lerner.

“Rockets guard Fred VanVleet, who is out after ACL surgery, is on the court at the end of practice giving his teammates pointers in pick-and-roll drills. He is not wearing a visible knee brace,” Lerner reported.

Guard Fred VanVleet, who is out after ACL surgery, is on the field at the end of practice giving pointers to his teammates in a pick-and-roll drill. He does not wear a visible knee brace. pic.twitter.com/klPG01vmbE

— Danielle Lerner (@danielle_lerner) October 23, 2025

Clinging to a two-point lead late in regulation, the Rockets nearly earned their first win of the season in the opener at the Pike Center before Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had other plans in Oklahoma City. The reigning MVP sent the game into overtime, putting down a 12-point fourth quarter before leading the Thunder to a one-point victory in double overtime with 35 points, five rebounds, five assists, two blocks and two steals.

Alperen Sengun was outstanding with 39 points, including 5 of 8 from deep, 11 rebounds, seven assists, two steals and one block to lead Houston. Kevin Durant finished his Rockets debut with 23 points, nine rebounds and three assists.

Should the Rockets trade for a new point guard?

With Rockets starting point guard Fred VanVleet on the mend, many believe the team lacks a veteran presence to lead a talented, dynamic group of players, led by All-Stars Alperen Sengun and Kevin Durant. Amen Thompson took over at point guard against the Thunder in the opener.

He finished with 18 points, five assists, four rebounds, one steal, one block and four turnovers. Despite his 0-for-7 from deep, Thompson has fared well in his newfound role. However, he will need additional help from Reid Sheppard and Josh Okogie off the bench.

However, trading a valuable point guard without giving up one of coach Ime Udoka’s tight nine-man rotation won’t be easy. Udoka will likely have to make do with the roster he has, which includes Aaron Holiday, who was cleared Tuesday.

The Rockets will host the Pistons in their regular season home opener on Friday.