"What we saw, especially in the playoffs ... had a lot to do with him not having a traditional point guard." @imanshump Via @ESPNNBA on X

What happened: Iman Shumpert tied Houston's playoff issues to playing without a traditional point guard. He expects Kevin Durant and the Rockets to improve next season with Fred VanVleet available.

Why it matters: Houston enters its second season with Durant after a playoff run that exposed half-court creation gaps. VanVleet's organization addresses late-game possession and workload balance around Durant.

What to watch: Houston opens against Dallas on Oct. 21. Training camp will clarify VanVleet's role and rotation fit.

Sources

  • @ESPNNBA