The Houston Rockets officially began their 2026-27 NBA campaign with the first day of training camp on Wednesday. This follows a Media Day on Tuesday where the team's health and new roster additions were the primary focus.
Every player was on the court for a full workout at the team's Houston facility. All eyes were on point guard Fred VanVleet, who missed the entire previous season. VanVleet addressed the media, stating his return is a season-long process and he doesn't view single games as isolated comeback moments. Coach Ime Udoka outlined the day's emphasis, which included integrating veterans and establishing defensive principles.
Udoka also talked about offensive adjustments with VanVleet back. "Definitely want to move Kevin around," Udoka said, referring to Kevin Durant. "If teams are going to try and take him out, they can pretty much do that anywhere on the court, but you can put him in some better spots to take advantage of that and avoid some blitzes."
VanVleet's absence was a major factor in the team's struggles last year. His playmaking and leadership are seen as essential for organizing the offense and creating easier shots for stars like Durant and Alperen Sengun. While Udoka noted VanVleet likely won't play in back-to-back games initially, his presence in practice alone changes the team's dynamic.
His experience, combined with that of Kevin Durant, provides a foundation the Rockets lacked. VanVleet mentioned that he and Durant, despite not playing together last season, will use their high basketball IQ to get up to speed quickly.
Newcomer Marcus Smart was the final player to speak after practice. He discussed meshing with VanVleet in the backcourt and adapting to the existing culture in Houston. Smart, known for his defensive intensity, talked about fitting into what Udoka is building. His addition, along with shooter Bogdan Bogdanovic, gives the Rockets more versatility and toughness on both ends of the floor.
The early camp start is due to a unique preseason schedule. The Rockets will travel to China for two games against the Dallas Mavericks, beginning October 7 in Macao. Their domestic preseason slate then continues, including a home game on October 15.
The team continues practice on Thursday as they ramp up for their overseas trip. These sessions are vital for building chemistry, especially with key players returning from injury and new faces in the rotation. The focus is on refining offensive sets and defensive communication before the games begin to count.
But consistency was an issue. Integrating VanVleet's steady hand and Smart's defensive prowess aims to solve that. The work in this early camp will set the tone for their attempt to climb the standings this season.
