VanVleet's ACL tear robs Houston of veteran playmaking just before media day, shifting heavy minutes to Reed Sheppard and Amen Thompson while Aaron Holiday fills the secondary load. With cap space tight, Houston is relying on internal development and positional versatility rather than a new starter. Durant rumors linger, Udoka praises VanVleet's longevity work, and the roster now faces a clearer path for youth to develop into legitimate fantasy options.