Fred VanVleet Returns From Injury as Rockets Defeat Mavericks

Fred VanVleet scored 17 points and handed out 7 assists in 24 minutes to help the Houston Rockets defeat Dallas 135–117 in Macao, marking his first NBA appearance since suffering a torn right anterior cruciate ligament in September 2025, Basket USA reported.

Recovery in Macao

More than a year after his knee injury, the veteran point guard returned to action with a 5-for-12 performance from 3-point range. He sank three shots from behind the arc during the opening quarter alone, reaching the target he set for himself throughout his rehabilitation.

“I was just trying to get one to go down, get rid of the rust and get on the board, but mostly I’m just happy to be back,” VanVleet said after the game, as reported by Basket USA.

First Half Acceleration by Houston

VanVleet’s return coincided with a dominant opening period for the Rockets, who built an early 27–19 lead after twelve minutes behind Alperen Sengun’s distribution and Jabari Smith Jr.’s aggressive play. Despite 19 points from Cooper Flagg in the first half for Dallas, Houston expanded its advantage before halftime.

The Rockets outpaced their opponents in the second quarter to carry a 65–45 lead into the locker room. Head coach Ime Udoka pointed to the veteran’s calming presence and defensive intensity following the victory.

“He brings a calmness and leadership. He knows when to score and when to set his teammates up, and he opens up so much for us in the pick-and-roll,” Udoka said, according to Basket USA. “I loved seeing him take his shots and get his rhythm back, and he sets the tone defensively as well.”

Offensive Depth and Durant’s Return

Houston maintained its advantage after the break through Tari Eason, who finished with 20 points and 9 rebounds, alongside Reed Sheppard’s 16 points and Sengun’s triple-double of 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. The Rockets shot 50% from beyond the arc and totaled 36 assists.

Fred VanVleet Returns From Injury as Rockets Defeat Mavericks

Kevin Durant added 15 points and requested to re-enter the game in the second half to build chemistry with his teammates. Zaccharie Risacher started for Dallas, contributing 9 points and 8 rebounds.

“When I saw Alperen and Fred were still out there, I wanted to get back on the floor,” Durant explained to Basket USA. “I’m just happy Fred is healthy. You never want to see guys stay away from the game that long, especially guys who love it this much.”