Houston Rockets Reed Sheppard has career night

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Horace Shivers | Last updated Mar 4, 2025 12:40 AM ET

Houston Rockets rookie Reed Sheppard strives in his first NBA career start. The former number 3 pick in the 2024 NBA draft had a career-high 25 points while shooting 10-17 from the field and 3-7 on his threes. Unfortunately, for Sheppard this season he hasn't had the opportunity to play much because of a deep Rockets lineup.

" It was great as I think you saw right in front of your eyes him get a rhythm become more aggressive and make the right plays while going downhill. It was good to see him and Cam (Whitmore) get an opportunity and make the most out of it. I know him and some other guys took advantage of it but its good to see him be aggressive on both ends," said head coach Ime Udoka.

With Reed finally earning significant playing time and success, it could be the boost that's needed to build a rookie's confidence and accelerate his growth. It could also be Udoka's unconditional way of uncovering a reliable contributor that can add depth to the roster and provide the coaching staff with more strategic options.

The Rockets continue to suffer from injuries as they were missing Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, Dillion Brooks, Fred VanVleet, and Tari Eason in Monday night's 137-128 loss to the Thunder. It's going to be very vital for Sheppard to take advantage of the injuries as he looks to earn more minutes in the lineup.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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