Reed Sheppard is continuing to develop his game as a second-year guard for the Houston Rockets. Despite a challenging debut season, he proved crucial in a recent victory over the Boston Celtics. This win showcases his potential as a key contributor to the team.
Impressive Victory Over the Celtics
In a significant game against the Celtics, Sheppard played a pivotal role. He scored 12 points, contributed three assists, and notably had zero turnovers. His shooting was particularly impressive, as he connected on 4 of 5 attempts from beyond the arc.
Growth and Development
- Sheppard’s early season performance showed signs of struggle.
- Following the summer league, he faced challenges adjusting to the NBA’s pace.
- To build his confidence, the Rockets assigned him to the G League, where he excelled.
- He averaged 30.7 points over three games there, including a standout 49-point performance.
After his experience in the G League, Sheppard’s gameplay improved. He took advantage of late-season opportunities when the Rockets rested starters, showing promise in those moments. Although he had limited playtime in the playoffs, his performances became a foundation for the upcoming season.
Role Expectations Moving Forward
With injuries affecting the Rockets’ lineup, particularly to guard Fred VanVleet, Sheppard’s role has become increasingly vital. The Rockets seek someone who can deliver consistent outside shooting while effectively managing the secondary ball-handling responsibilities.
Against the Celtics, he demonstrated the ability to facilitate the offense without overextending his play. His performance indicates he is on track to develop into a reliable sniper from three-point range, complementing key players such as Amen Thompson and Kevin Durant.
Conclusion
If Reed Sheppard continues to refine his skills, he could become exactly what the Rockets need this season: a shooter and playmaker capable of impacting the game positively.
