In-Season Tournament 'Positive Right Now' for Houston Rockets' Fred VanVleet

A win against the Nuggets would keep the Rockets alive for a chance to advance to the knockout round. However, a loss could result in an elimination.

HOUSTON — The Houston Rockets will play their third In-Season Tournament game Friday night against the Denver Nuggets.

The Rockets are in control of their own destiny. A win against the Nuggets would keep Houston alive for a chance to advance to the knockout round. However, a loss could result in an elimination. 

Fred VanVleet always believed the tournament would bring excitement to the league. And when it comes to the Rockets, it has become an important foundation as Houston tries to establish a winning culture.

"I think it's a positive right now," VanVleet said. "It gives a great sense of urgency early on in the season that's been lacking. It will only get better."

Rockets guard Fred VanVleet drives with the ball as New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) defends during the third quarter at Toyota Center / Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

For a chance to win the inaugural NBA Cup, the Rockets are still in a good position. They won their first In-Season Tournament game on Nov. 10 in a 104-100 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans.

It was a come-from-behind victory for the Rockets, as VanVleet scored 20 points and eight assists in the win. Alperen Şengün, who began the night questionable with a sprained right ankle, finished with 24 points and eight rebounds.

But one week later, the Rockets fell to 1-1 during their In-Season Tournament in a loss to the Los Angeles Clippers.

West Group B is the only grouping out of the six where every team has a loss. The Nuggets and Pelicans are tied with a 2-1 record. If the Rockets can beat the Nuggets and the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday, their 3-1 record would be enough to win Group B. 

"It means everything for our group right now," VanVleet said. "There are a lot of different ways for us to learn how to win. It reinforces all of the game habits. We are going to go through the same things as a group and already have. But it will only make us better."

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