After a historic faculty season that noticed him drafted third general, Reed Sheppard struggled early in his younger profession. The previous Kentucky guard was one among many’s favorites for Rookie of the 12 months earlier than the season began, however expectations had been shortly altered with minimal enjoying time and by no means discovering a rhythm on the land.
The Rockets, who’ve exceeded expectations and at the moment sit in second place within the Western Convention, assigned Sheppard to the G League on Monday. On Tuesday night time, Sheppard confirmed individuals why he was taken first within the draft by placing up a ridiculous 49 factors, 5 rebounds, six assists, three steals and one block in 37 minutes. Sheppard wished to show he did not belong within the G League by enjoying with excessive confidence, making 33 photographs, together with 19 three-point makes an attempt. He was environment friendly, making 17 baskets and eight three-pointers.
Sheppard confirmed the three-level scoring capacity that made him a coveted prospect popping out of Kentucky. He was capable of get to the rim and end with nifty lay-ups and dunks, mid-range pull-ups for jumpers or saves for floaters and three-way photographs that got here off screens, in transition and catch and shoot alternatives. He confirmed off his underrated athleticism by ending on the rim and getting his fingers in passing lanes for interceptions.
Regardless of the loss, Tuesday was a profitable night time for Sheppard and the Rockets. Averaging simply 3.3 factors, 1.3 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 11.6 minutes per sport on 32.2% from the sector and 27.9% from three thus far with the Rockets , it is crucial for Sheppard to regain his confidence and proceed to develop. The rookie remains to be solely 20 years outdated, and on a crew poised to make the playoffs, it is essential for him to get sufficient reps to have the ability to keep prepared when his title is known as.
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