Rockets likely to turn to Amen Thompson, others after Fred VanVleet injury

The Rockets are bracing for life without Fred VanVleet, and the solution likely won’t come from outside the building.

VanVleet’s ACL injury leaves Houston without its floor general, but trade options are limited — half the roster is ineligible to be dealt right now, and free agency is off the table due to the hard cap.

Even with an open roster spot, the Rockets don’t have enough room under the apron to sign a veteran to a minimum deal.

That means the Rockets will turn to their own bench. Danielle Lerner of the Houston Chronicle reports that Reed Sheppard, Amen Thompson and Aaron Holiday are all candidates to take on heavier ball-handling duties.

Sheppard may be the closest to VanVleet stylistically, with his combination of three-point shooting and playmaking.

Thompson, meanwhile, is dangerous with the ball but may be better served in a role that highlights his off-ball cutting and athleticism. Holiday offers stability and experience as a reserve.

The Rockets will also miss the less obvious parts of VanVleet’s game. He led the team with 3.1 deflections per contest last season and produced more screen assists than any Houston player who wasn’t a center.