Rockets Face Early Challenges with Reed Sheppard Ahead of Season Start
The Houston Rockets face early challenges as they prepare for the new NBA season, especially with Fred VanVleet’s absence. Reed Sheppard and Amen Thompson are expected to play critical roles in the team’s offense. While Sheppard has shown potential in preseason games, there are concerns about his fit as a facilitator.
Reed Sheppard’s Role and Performance
Sheppard, at 22, is anticipated to take on significant minutes this season. Following his selection as the third overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, he struggled in his rookie year. During 52 games, Sheppard averaged 4.4 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 1.4 assists, shooting only 33.8% from three-point range. With VanVleet sidelined, Sheppard’s role has shifted from developmental to pivotal.
Concerns and Highlights
- In three preseason games, Sheppard recorded nine turnovers against six assists.
- His perimeter shooting has shown improvement, hitting 50% from beyond the arc in recent matchups.
- Despite this, his defensive liabilities remain a concern due to his size.
Amen Thompson’s Influence
While Sheppard continues to adapt, Amen Thompson has performed well. Comfortable handling the ball, Thompson provides stability, but his solo contribution may not suffice. The Rockets need more than one effective point guard for a successful season start.
The Rockets’ season hinges on Sheppard’s development as a reliable facilitator. Early signs indicate a challenging road ahead if improvements aren’t made soon.
