Rockets guard Reed Sheppard faced a challenging debut as a starter on Monday in Phoenix, where he converted only 2 of his 9 attempted shots. However, his contributions extended beyond scoring, as he registered five assists and three steals in 27 minutes. Notably, the Rockets showed a +6 differential while he was on the court, underscoring his impact on the game. This performance signifies the eighth straight game in which Houston outscored their opponents during Sheppard’s minutes, highlighting his value to the team.
The 21-year-old Sheppard is displaying considerable growth this season. With averages of 13.1 points per game and 3.2 assists on shooting metrics of .490 from the field, .471 from beyond the arc, and .706 from the free-throw line, his performance has clearly improved. As noted by William Guillory of The Athletic, Sheppard’s development is boosting the Rockets’ aspirations for a title run.
Head coach Ime Udoka has praised Sheppard’s ability to seize the opportunities presented to him. “You’re going to get more of a rhythm with the more minutes and opportunities you get,” Udoka explained, emphasizing the importance of confidence in Sheppard’s game. The Rockets’ head coach indicated the team’s need for Sheppard to step up, particularly with veteran Fred VanVleet absent from the lineup.
In another layer of strategy, Sheppard started in place of superstar Kevin Durant, who is sidelined for personal reasons. As the Rockets prepare for their upcoming game against the Golden State Warriors, Sheppard may have the chance to be a pivotal part of the starting five again.
The Rockets continue to demonstrate resilience and promise as they develop their young talent, creating a hopeful outlook for the remainder of the season.