Fred VanVleet's commitment to Rockets is crystal clear after devastating injury

The Houston Rockets knew they were acquiring a leader in Fred VanVleet. A new video shows how large an understatement that is.

VanVleet is injured. He's done for the year. No matter how you shake it, that's a devastating blow to the Rockets' 2025-26 title odds. VanVleet was an integral part of their game plan.

A lesser man could be defeated. VanVleet is no lesser man. In a new video, he showed that his head is in the right place.

VanVleet is going to continue leading this squad.

Rockets' VanVleet wants a Rockets championship

The video shows VanVleet post-surgery. His mind immediately goes to one place:

"We're going to get that Houston ring."

- Fred VanVleet

VanVleet's singular-mindedness is one of his defining qualities. He's hyper-focused on winning at the highest level.

It's not just about trying to win. It's about setting an example. The younger Rockets will see how focused VanVleet is on championship gold, and they will be influenced.

So, even when he can't get on the floor, VanVleet is doing (a large part of) his job in Houston. Still, it's hard to avoid the question:

Will he win a ring with the Rockets?

Rockets are likely to wait for VanVleet

There's been no shortage of speculation about VanVleet's Rockets future.

Who knows? They could look to use his contract in a trade this year. We've all seen the targets. Could Houston flip VanVleet and some picks for Derrick White? Is it time for Trae Young to come to Houston?

(No).

There are possibilities. Here's the reality: VanVleet is likely to remain with the Rockets.

In the NBA, there are non-basketball variables that can have an impact on the basketball court. The Rockets can maintain goodwill with the players by doing right by one of the most beloved players in the league. If they trade VanVleet, their reputation as a player-friendly organization will be compromised.

Moreover, the Rockets are surely hoping for two or more years of prime Kevin Durant. The 2025-26 season isn't the be-all, end-all. It could be smarter to hang onto their picks, keep a good point guard and make a harder push heading into 2026-27.

For now, the Rockets are more likely to look on the bright side. The injury forces Amen Thompson into a ball-handling role. It opens up more room for Reed Sheppard. The Rockets will get a better look at some of their younger guys in VanVleet's absence:

Rest assured, he'll be leading them from the sidelines.