Reed Sheppard Shines in Dominant Victory Against Celtics
Reed Sheppard has made significant strides in his evolving NBA career. As a second-year guard, he was originally drafted by the Houston Rockets to bolster an offense that had struggled with poor shooting accuracy. In the 2023-24 season, the Rockets finished with a respectable 41-41 record, improving by 19 games. This performance also allowed them to secure a top-three pick in the draft, a valuable opportunity stemming from a prior trade.
Sheppard’s Impressive College Record
Sheppard’s shooting prowess was a major factor that drew the Rockets’ attention during the 2024 draft. While at the University of Kentucky, he showcased exceptional skill, leading the nation with a remarkable 52.1 percent shooting rate from beyond the arc. His basketball intelligence and on-court positioning were seen as perfect fits alongside Houston’s core players.
Challenges and Growth in the NBA
Despite a successful summer league, Sheppard faced challenges as the 2024-25 season began. Adjusting to the NBA’s pace proved difficult for him. He often hesitated to take open shots and struggled with turnovers as he attempted to handle secondary ball-handling duties. Recognizing the need for more development, the Rockets assigned him to their G League affiliate, the Rio Grande Valley Vipers.
Dominance in the G League
During his stint with the Vipers, Sheppard excelled. He averaged an impressive 30.7 points over three games, peaking with a sensational 49-point performance. This experience helped boost his confidence on the court and led to improvements in his overall game.
Key Performance Against the Celtics
As the Rockets secured the number two seed in the league, Sheppard capitalized on the opportunity to shine in the final weeks of the season. In a recent game against the Boston Celtics, he played a crucial role. Sheppard contributed 12 points, three assists, and notably, zero turnovers. He shot 4-of-5 from three-point range, exhibiting precision and restraint in his ball-handling responsibilities.
Moving Forward
The current injury to Fred VanVleet has placed additional expectations on Sheppard. The Rockets require him to be a consistent outside shooter while also functioning as a reliable secondary ball handler. His recent performance indicates that he is developing the ability to fulfill this role effectively.
Conclusion
Reed Sheppard’s journey in the NBA is one of challenges and triumphs. His ability to contribute as a 3-point shooter and playmaker could prove crucial for the Houston Rockets this season. If he continues to refine his game, Sheppard could become an indispensable asset for the team.
