The Houston Rockets are entering the 2025-26 season with renewed optimism, highlighting Reed Sheppard Houston Rockets fans expect to see take a significant step forward. After finishing the previous season with 52 wins in the competitive Western Conference, the team’s young talent, including Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., Alperen Sengun, and Jalen Green, generated considerable excitement.
Despite the strong contributions from these players, Sheppard and Cam Whitmore saw limited playing time last season, averaging 12.6 and 16.2 minutes respectively. Following the departures of Green and Whitmore during the offseason, Sheppard now has an opportunity to claim a more central role within the team’s rotation.
Sheppard’s Shooting Strengths Could Address Rockets’ Scoring Needs
Houston ranked 21st in the league in three-point shooting last season, converting only 35.3 percent from long range. Sheppard’s shooting ability stands as one of his most promising attributes, as he made 52.1 percent of his three-pointers during his single collegiate season at Kentucky. This prowess is a key reason ESPN identified him as the top sophomore on the Rockets heading into the new season.
While Sheppard’s rookie year did not produce standout moments, the Rockets remain hopeful about his potential impact as he gains more minutes. The team’s success in truly contending may hinge on the development of young players like Sheppard, Thompson, and Jabari Smith Jr., all expected to play vital roles moving forward.
Projected Role as Playmaker and Secondary Ball Handler
Although Sheppard’s summer league performance was unremarkable, there is cause for optimism. He is anticipated to serve as a secondary ball handler, playmaker, and floor spacer who can facilitate alongside Houston’s established stars. His shooting ability should complement Thompson and Sengun well, while maintaining defensive effectiveness will be critical to his overall contribution.
Sheppard’s increased role could prove instrumental as the Rockets target a deeper impact in their title pursuit. Whether the upcoming season is the ideal moment for his breakout remains an open question, especially considering Houston’s need to fine-tune their depth chart around him.
Sheppard’s Development Crucial to Rockets’ Guard Depth and Playoff Hopes
The Rockets enter the year with a relatively thin guard rotation, placing greater importance on Sheppard’s progress and shooting to bolster the team’s offensive options. His potential upside as a “swing factor” could influence Houston’s playoff trajectory significantly if he adapts effectively to his expanded responsibilities.