Yardbarker
x
The former Boston Celtics prospect who could now get Houston Rockets chance
Credit: G Fiume/Nic Antaya via Getty Images

The Houston Rockets have received some major bad news ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season.

The Houston Rockets have worked this offseason to increase their chances of winning the NBA Championship.

It all started with the trade for Kevin Durant, a deal that has been deemed the best move of the offseason. However, with the 2025-26 NBA season less than a month away, the Rockets have been handed a massive blow.

It came in the form of Fred VanVleet suffering a torn ACL injury. The Rockets fans are in disbelief over their point guard’s injury. But the terrible news could turn out to be a blessing in disguise for one player.

Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images

JD Davison could be the solution to the Houston Rockets’ complicated situation

Considering the Rockets only have 14 out of their 15 roster spots filled, the easiest way would be picking a point guard from the open market.

Plus, the likes of Ben Simmons and Russell Westbrook are still looking for their next teams. But with the Rockets using most of their $14.1 million non-taxpayer mid-level exception to sign Dorian Finney-Smith, the team is hard-capped at the first apron until June 30, 2026.

Right now, the Rockets are only $1.2 million below the first apron. This rules out the possibility of signing Simmons or Westbrook.

On a positive note, the Rockets welcomed JD Davison to the roster earlier in the offseason on a two-way contract.

While he was likely brought on for extra help during the regular season, the Rockets can now rely on Davison as a potential starting point guard.

JD Davison’s G-League career proves he can be a valuable addition

Aside from Davison, the Rockets have two options – play Aaron Holiday or go big. However, Holiday has always been a bench player in the NBA.

An even better reason to rely on Davison is the soon-to-be 23-year-old’s G-League career. Davison averaged 25.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game for the Boston Celtics‘ G-League team last season.

Davison’s efforts were recognized as he won the 2025 G-League MVP. On top of that, he shot a solid 48.3% from the field last season.

While Davison struggled during his sporadic NBA appearances for the Celtics, playing starter minutes could help him get adjusted to the league.

Unless the Rockets engage in a trade, trusting in Davison seems like a solid move for the team heading into the regular season.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!