The Houston Rockets (32-16) have claimed some of their biggest wins this season on the road against Eastern Conference playoff teams and will try to do it again against the New York Knicks (32-17) on Monday at Madison Square Garden.

With Fred VanVleet potentially hitting free agency this offseason, the Rockets could have interest in a new contract.

The Houston Rockets and Fred VanVleet appear to be aligned on the potential of a long-term future together, with both sides showing mutual interest in an

There’s an understanding that the goal is to win by any means necessary, and not get carried away with the highs and the lows. That's maturity.”

VanVleet hasn’t been the sole reason for the Rockets’ improvement — they added fellow vet Dillon Brooks and are seeing growth from young players like Amen Thompson, Alperen Sengun, Jalen Green, Tari Eason and more — but there’s no coincidence that his arrival coincided so directly with Houston’s climb to the top of the standings.

Fred VanVleet and the Houston Rockets "have mutual interest" in an extension, according to NBA insider Jake Fischer. Both team and player are "motivated"