TUESDAY UPDATE: Fred VanVleet has now been ruled out for tonight’s game against the Bucks. His next opportunity to play will come tomorrow at home against the Spurs.
After a 3-8 stretch over their last 11 games, the Houston Rockets may finally be set to get their starting point guard back into the lineup on Tuesday night.
Fred VanVleet, who has missed nine-straight contests with an ankle issue, is officially listed questionable for Tuesday’s home tilt against the Milwaukee Bucks.
Ever since the veteran point guard went down with an injury on February 1, it’s become evident just how valuable he is to Houston’s success. VanVleet’s production of 14.6 points and 5.8 assists per game has been sorely missed through the team’s recent struggles.
The Rockets will need all hands on deck for the home contest with Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks, who currently sit fifth in the Eastern Conference. VanVleet, who celebrates his 31st birthday on Tuesday, will provide a stabilizing presence as a true floor general if he is able to suit up.
If VanVleet doesn’t play, though, Amen Thompson is likely to remain in the starting lineup and possibly assume point guard duties. With Dillon Brooks also questionable, Aaron Holiday may also be a candidate to enter the starting five.
With a 35-22 record on the campaign, the Rockets will look to get back on track and climb higher once more in the Western Conference standings after falling from second to fifth-place once VanVleet suffered his injury.
Tip-off for Tuesday night’s game is set for 8 p.m. EST.
