What happened: Houston Rockets guard Fred VanVleet is set to return Friday morning in Game 1 of the NBA China Games against the Dallas Mavericks. The preseason matchup marks his first game action since sustaining the knee injury during a team minicamp in September 2025.

Why it matters: The veteran's presence provides a stabilizing force for Houston after his year-long absence. While the team will manage his minutes, VanVleet targeted this preseason return months in advance to ensure readiness for the regular season.

What to watch: Houston will monitor his physical response to Friday's exhibition ahead of Sunday's rematch with Dallas.