Reed Sheppard, the 21-year-old guard for the Houston Rockets, has made waves in the 2025-26 NBA season. After showcasing impressive performances, he has secured his first start of the season, marking a significant moment in his young career.
Sheppard’s Performance and Start
In a recent game against the Denver Nuggets, Sheppard led the Rockets with 27 points, despite a close loss. His impactful performance has caught the attention of the coaching staff, specifically head coach Ime Udoka, who decided to reward him with a starting position in the following game.
Roster Challenges for the Rockets
The Rockets are currently facing several roster challenges. Key players are sidelined due to injuries and personal reasons:
- Kevin Durant is out for two games due to personal matters.
- Tari Eason suffered a right oblique strain earlier this month, leading to a multi-week absence.
- Fred VanVleet and Dorian Finney-Smith are still recovering from offseason surgeries.
These absences have provided opportunities for younger players like Sheppard to step up. He has taken advantage of this situation, playing significant minutes as a starter alongside key players, including All-Star center Alperen Sengun.
Future Implications for Sheppard
Sheppard’s recent form signals that he may continue to earn starting roles. He previously started three games late in the 2024-25 season, but those appearances came during a time of extensive injuries among the roster. This year, Sheppard has established himself as a reliable rotation player, averaging 13.6 points, with impressive shooting percentages of 50.7% from the field and 48.8% from beyond the arc.
Upcoming Games and Matchups
The Rockets have a challenging schedule ahead. With Durant expected to miss the game against the Golden State Warriors, Sheppard is likely to start in that matchup. Should he maintain his performance level, he may solidify his position even once the full roster returns.
Coach Udoka has emphasized the importance of team dynamics, and if Sheppard can consistently contribute, he may provide valuable support to his team when healthy players like Durant, Sengun, Amen Thompson, and Jabari Smith Jr. return to the lineup.
As the 2025-26 season unfolds, Sheppard’s journey will be one to watch, especially as he navigates the starting role amid the Rockets’ roster challenges.
