Ime Udoka: Rockets Want Fred VanVleet Back, But Game 7 Loss Will ‘Sting for a Minute’

Rockets coach Ime Udoka made it clear Sunday that Fred VanVleet remains a big part of Houston’s future plans, even after a deflating 103-89 Game 7 home loss to the Warriors.

“I think both sides want to be here and want him here,” Udoka told reporters. “He’s a huge part of our growth. Love everything he’s done. Perfect combo of on and off the ball for our guards and young guys to grow. I’d love to have him back, and I think the feeling’s mutual.”

But Udoka didn’t sugarcoat the way the season ended.

“We laid an egg,” he said. “It’s going to sting for a minute.”

Meanwhile, the Warriors turned back the clock, leaning on veterans and big plays to quiet a rowdy Houston crowd. Steve Kerr said Draymond Green addressed the team before Game 7, owning up to his Game 6 flagrant and urging a better effort.

“When Draymond is mentally right, he’s an incredible player for us,” Kerr said.

Buddy Hield led the way with 33 points, Stephen Curry added 22 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists, and Jimmy Butler finished with 20, 8 and 7. Next stop for the Warriors: Minneapolis.