Reed Sheppard is making a significant impact as a key reserve for the Houston Rockets this season, showcasing an impressive improvement in his 3-point shooting and securing more consistent minutes following a vacancy in the backcourt. This development has thrust him into discussions for late-season awards and enhanced the Rockets’ prospects as they vie for a favorable playoff seed.
Selected third overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, Sheppard earned acclaim as a standout player at the University of Kentucky, where he led the country in 3-point shooting. In his second NBA season, he has been averaging 12.7 points per game, boasting a true shooting percentage of 55 percent, alongside nearly 3.0 rebounds, about 1.4 steals, and roughly three assists over nearly 25 minutes per game. Following the injury to starting point guard Fred VanVleet, who suffered an ACL tear during training camp, Sheppard was thrust into an expanded role that allowed him to play alongside star player Kevin Durant, increasing his shooting opportunities.
Sheppard’s shooting statistics illustrate his growth; transitioning from a disappointing 33.1 percent from deep in his rookie season to an impressive 38.4 percent this year. His development was supported by a year spent in the franchise’s G League affiliate, the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, where he showcased his scoring ability with standout performances, including a remarkable 50-point game.
Initially, Sheppard faced struggles on both ends of the court during his rookie season, leading to time spent with the Vipers. These experiences cultivated his game, although he faced challenges in establishing consistency in the NBA. Early in his career, he was benched due to defensive shortcomings, being targeted by opponents. However, his transformation into a high-effort, on-ball defender has changed perceptions and allowed him to play critical minutes in close games.
Sheppard’s improvements have directly influenced the Rockets’ success this season, contributing to their strong record of 34-20, placing them among the top seeds in the Western Conference. His role has become vital in providing bench scoring and perimeter spacing, particularly alongside Durant. Notably, Sheppard’s performance in the last 23 games includes significant contributions, such as a 13-point game in a narrow victory against the Charlotte Hornets. With a key matchup against the New York Knicks approaching, Sheppard has the chance to elevate his visibility and strengthen his case for postseason honors.
Going forward, Sheppard’s presence in high-stakes games will be crucial as the Rockets navigate the remainder of the season, with each game carrying playoff implications. Statistically, he is on track to finish the season with improvements in his scoring and 3-point percentage compared to his rookie year. Award voters will be closely monitoring his performances as the regular season wraps up. For the Rockets, maintaining a top-tier status in the Western Conference will heavily rely on Sheppard’s ability to sustain his shooting efficiency and defensive performance, as the team continues to build around his talents to enhance both their playoff positioning and his award candidacy.