Draymond Green does not consider the Rockets title contenders

The veteran forward of the Golden State Warriors Draymond Green does not consider Houston Title contenders Rockets without Fred VanVleet.

The Rockets entered the 2025-26 season as title contenders after acquiring veteran star Kevin Durant while adding solid pieces to the roster, elevating their status. However, they suffered a major blow when VanVleet tore his ACL before the start of the season, leaving a big hole at the point guard position.

Green talked about Houston’s flaws during the October 28 episode of The Draymond Green Show. He said people underestimate what VanVleet brings to the team, especially when it comes to shooting, ball handling, defense and leadership.

“I like that Rockets roster. I just think I expect them to compete without Fred VanVleet, I just think you’re kidding yourself. You’re almost acting like Fred doesn’t do what Fred does from a leadership standpoint, from a ball-handling standpoint, from a shot-making standpoint. Fred’s a defensive bulldog, I think defensive people are kind.” at 20:27.

What’s next for the Rockets this season

It’s understandable that Draymond Green has this perspective on the Rockets.

Fred VanVleet provided not only a stable floor but also a higher ceiling. He helped Houston push Green and Golden State to seven games during last year’s postseason. His absence is significant as the team needs to rely on younger and less experienced players to pick up the production.

Houston got off to a slow start after dropping its first two games to Oklahoma City and Detroit. Despite this, they bounced back with their first wins over Brooklyn and Toronto.

Alperen Sengun and Kevin Durant highlighted the team’s offense as the best scoring option. Meanwhile, Jabari Smith Jr., Taree Eason and Amen Thompson have come up with ways to help the team gain an advantage in key areas against their opponents. Maintaining that will be key for them to build the winning momentum that would propel them higher up the table.

The Rockets will be looking forward to their next match, as they are on the road. They play the Boston Celtics on November 1st at 8:00 PM ET.