What's Happening?
Reed Sheppard is set to start in the Houston Rockets' preseason opener against the Hawks, taking advantage of Fred VanVleet's absence due to a knee injury. Sheppard, a second-year guard, is aiming to secure a starting position for the regular season. During his rookie season, Sheppard played in 52 regular-season games, starting in three, and averaged 4.4 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 1.4 assists across 12.6 minutes per game. His performance in the preseason will be crucial as he seeks to establish himself as a key player in the Rockets' lineup.
Why It's Important?
Sheppard's opportunity to start in the preseason is significant for his career development and the Rockets' roster strategy. With VanVleet sidelined, Sheppard has the chance to demonstrate his capabilities and potentially earn a more prominent role in the team. His performance could influence the Rockets' decisions regarding guard rotations and starting lineups for the regular season. The team is focused on building a competitive roster, and Sheppard's contribution will be vital in achieving this objective.
What's Next?
The Rockets will continue to assess their roster during the preseason, with Sheppard's performance being a key factor in determining guard rotations. As the team prepares for the regular season, decisions regarding player roles and starting positions will be influenced by preseason outcomes. Sheppard's ability to perform well could lead to increased playing time and responsibilities. The Rockets are also expected to finalize their strategy for integrating Fred VanVleet back into the lineup once he recovers from his injury.
