NBA Notes: Rockets, Fred VanVleet, Hawks, Peyton Watson, Thunder

Rockets

Rockets guard Fred VanVleet believes he’s on track to be back on the court this fall.

Speaking with Erik Horne of Andscape, VanVleet said he expects to be available for Houston’s preseason schedule as he continues recovering from the torn ACL and meniscus that sidelined him throughout the 2025-26 season.

“I’ll be very disappointed if I’m not playing in the preseason,” VanVleet said (via Hoops Rumors).

The veteran guard admitted the lengthy rehab tested his patience, particularly as he watched Houston’s playoff run from the sidelines.

“The playoffs was pretty hard,” VanVleet said. “I was feeling good some days… and then Game 1 or Game 2, and I was like, ‘Damn, I’m going to miss the whole season.'”

VanVleet added that he has regained his enthusiasm for the game after months of rehabilitation.

“What I missed the most was the outlet,” he said. “I really just love every aspect of the game.”

The former All-Star also expressed confidence in Houston’s outlook.

“We can win a championship next year,” VanVleet said. “But that’s internal.”

Hawks

The Hawks continue to be linked to Nuggets restricted free agent Peyton Watson, though completing a deal could prove difficult.

According to Tony Jones of The Athletic, Atlanta is among the teams with interest in Watson, alongside the Bucks and Clippers.

However, Jackson Caudell of Hawks on SI noted that the Hawks would likely need to complete a sign-and-trade because they lack the cap space to sign Watson outright.

Denver has repeatedly indicated it values Watson highly and remains confident it can retain the 23-year-old forward, making any potential trade a challenging one to complete.

Thunder

Where LeBron James signs may dominate headlines, but it shouldn’t significantly alter Oklahoma City’s outlook.

That’s the view of Ivan White of Thunder on SI, who argued the defending 2025 NBA champions will be in title contention regardless of James’ decision.

Basically, whether James lands with an Eastern Conference contender such as Cleveland, Miami or Philadelphia, or stays in the West, White believes Oklahoma City’s championship outlook remains largely unchanged entering the 2026-27 season.

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