The Houston Rockets lost a key cog ahead of the upcoming season after Fred VanVleet suffered an ACL injury during the team’s mini-camp in the Bahamas last month. VanVleet, who has been a steadying force for the Rockets, will be sidelined for several months, leaving a big hole in the team’s backcourt. It’s an unfortunate setback for Houston, which envisioned a more dynamic look on offense with VanVleet and Kevin Durant playing together. Rockets coach Ime Udoka , however, isn’t too concerned with VanVleet’s extended absence. He said they have enough weapons to utilize as a playmaker, although it won’t be the usual strategy . “I think it will be different guys kind of thrust into a role. For instance, Reed (Sheppard), you take Amen (Thompson), guys that have done it some with

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