The Houston Rockets surprised many NBA fans by selecting Kentucky guard Reed Sheppard with the third overall pick in the 2022 draft. The team had been rumored to be considering other options, but ultimately decided to add Sheppard to their roster. The 6’3 sharpshooter is known for his impressive 52% shooting from long range during his freshman season at Kentucky. His shooting ability will be a valuable asset to a Rockets team that struggled offensively last season. Despite their offensive struggles, the Rockets had a top-ten defense throughout the year.
The third overall pick was acquired by the Rockets as part of a major trade that sent James Harden to the Brooklyn Nets in 2021. Originally projected to have the ninth pick, the Rockets moved up in the draft lottery drawing and selected Sheppard. In a trade with the Phoenix Suns, the Rockets swapped future obligations owed by Brooklyn in 2026 and 2027. Houston is making a strategic bet on a potential collapse by the Suns in the coming years.
Sheppard joins a crowded backcourt in Houston, which includes veteran guard Fred VanVleet and fourth-year shooting guard Jalen Green. VanVleet, who signed a lucrative contract last offseason, has a club option in 2025-2026 that the Rockets could potentially decline if Sheppard’s development goes as planned. This would free up significant salary cap space for the team. Sheppard’s shooting and playmaking abilities will add a new dimension to the Rockets’ backcourt and provide a change of pace alongside his more experienced teammates.
Despite the crowded backcourt, it is unlikely that Sheppard will play a major role in the Rockets’ rotation initially. However, he could serve as a valuable replacement for guard Aaron Holiday off the bench. With other young guards like Amen Thompson and Cam Whitmore also vying for minutes, Sheppard will need to prove himself in order to earn playing time. His four-year rookie scale contract gives the team time to develop his skills and determine his role within the roster.
Overall, the addition of Reed Sheppard to the Houston Rockets brings both excitement and uncertainty. Fans are eager to see how the young guard will mesh with the team’s existing talent and contribute to their potential future success. With the Rockets’ strategic moves in the draft and trades, they are positioning themselves to be competitive in the coming seasons. Sheppard’s shooting prowess and potential for growth make him a promising asset for the team as they continue to rebuild and develop their roster. Time will tell how Sheppard’s addition will impact the Rockets’ performance on the court in the years to come.
