The NBA is buzzing with concern over the Houston Rockets' point guard dilemma, and it's a topic that refuses to fade away. Despite the news breaking a few weeks ago, the injury to Fred VanVleet, the team's former All-Star point guard, has become a major talking point as the preseason begins.
When we say the Rockets are 'thin' at the point guard position, it's an understatement. Media outlets like The Athletic and their writers, William Guillory and Fred Katz, have highlighted this burning question: where will the playmaking come from without VanVleet?
This concern is twofold. Firstly, the Rockets lack a proven point guard to step into VanVleet's shoes. Amen Thompson and Reed Sheppard are the obvious choices, but Thompson lacks experience running an offense, especially in high-pressure situations. Sheppard, on the other hand, had limited opportunities last season, so is it wise to thrust him into the spotlight so soon? Guillory raises a valid point: will these talented players be ready for the scrutiny and responsibility that comes with filling VanVleet's role?
The second concern is the proximity of the regular season. While training camp and preseason offer opportunities to experiment, an injury in late September leaves little time for the Rockets to find their offensive rhythm.
This issue has caught the attention of the entire NBA and the media. After a blockbuster offseason that saw the Rockets revamp their roster with key additions like Kevin Durant, Dorian Finney-Smith, and Clint Capela, the positive buzz is now overshadowed by VanVleet's injury.
The Rockets must quickly silence the doubters and find a workable offense without their floor general. Early success will quell these concerns, but any struggles could damage Houston's reputation as a legitimate title contender.
So, will the Rockets rise to the challenge and prove their doubters wrong, or will this injury derail their championship aspirations? The NBA season is just around the corner, and the answers will soon be revealed.
