Rockets' Playmaking Void: Can New Guards Fill VanVleet's Shoes?

The Houston Rockets have slipped to the fifth seed in the Western Conference, revealing limitations that were anticipated before the season began. A significant contributing factor is the absence of key player Fred VanVleet, who sustained a serious injury prior to the season, leaving a void in the team's primary ball-handling duties.

Head Coach Ime Udoka is relying on Kevin Durant and Alperen Sengun to manage the offense. Durant offers good ball-handling for his size, but consistency remains a concern. Sengun is most effective closer to the rim, limiting his impact as an initial ball handler. Young prospects Reed Sheppard and Amen Thompson are being developed for this role, showing flashes of potential.

Reed Sheppard demonstrates promise in handling the ball and finding his offense, though his defensive capabilities are not yet at VanVleet's level. Amen Thompson, while a valuable player, needs significant improvement in ball-handling to effectively penetrate defenses and create plays. The Rockets may continue to struggle to compete at the highest level without a solidified primary ball handler for the remainder of the season.