Fred VanVleet returns after 535 days as Houston opens vs Dallas

Preseason: 15 assists to 1 turnover

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 49m1 min read

Fred VanVleet arrives for his first game back in 535 days! Houston opens their 2026-27 NBA season against Dallas at 8:3 Via @NBA on X

What happened: Houston opens its 2026-27 campaign against Dallas at 8:30 p.m. ET on NBA League Pass. VanVleet missed the entire 2025-26 season before returning for the opener.

Why it matters: VanVleet is positioned as Houston's lead guard after a lost season. His availability resets the rotation entering opening night.

By the numbers: 535 days between appearances. 15 assists to 1 turnover in preseason play.

What to watch: Houston-Dallas tips at 8:30 p.m. ET. His minutes and usage in the opener will show his current workload.

Sources

@NBA 2026-10-21T22:24:21.874820+00:00

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