Houston Rockets coach Ime Udoka stressed the need to manage Fred VanVleet's minutes down the stretch even before VanVleet missed five games in early February due to an abductor injury. As February now comes to a close, Udoka's concerns regarding his point guard feel increasingly prescient.
VanVleet, who celebrated his 30th birthday Sunday night, isn't exactly built like the many preternatural athletes populating the NBA. He's charitably listed at 6'0," with a lack of burst that's playfully mocked by both Udoka and his Rockets' teammates. VanVleet, when right, is still a fringe All-Star player, one who can lead a top-half offense thanks to his blend of smarts and floor spacing.