Reed Sheppard performed two preseason video games with the Houston Rocketsand the third selection believes these appearances have been invaluable to his improvement.
Sheppard debuted with 4 factors, three rebounds, three assists, two blocks and a steal Monday in a loss to the Utah Jazz. He returned Wednesday with 11 factors, 4 rebounds, two assists and a steal on 5-of-7 capturing from the sphere in a win over the Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder.
The 20-year-old admitted to having some nerves in opposition to the Jazz however felt extra snug in his second outing, as is commonly the case with first-year gamers. He stated Friday these video games present constructive suggestions on what he can anticipate this season.
“That is all,” stated Sheppard, through Jackson Gatlin of Locked on Rockets. “It is the NBA. I’ve by no means performed within the NBA earlier than. The sport is quicker. The fellows are larger, stronger and extra athletic. (I am) simply studying little offensive and defensive tips simply to grasp sure issues.”
Sheppard enters the season with excessive expectations as a lottery decide. He has impressed his teammates and coaches throughout offseason runs and in observe and seems to be dealing with the transition from school to the NBA nicely thus far in coaching camp.
The 6-foot-2 guard was voted on this week as favourite to win Rookie of the Yr award in a survey of common managers. They most likely assume Sheppard is in an incredible place to see play and make an affect with these minutes this season.
Sheppard leans on the crew for any recommendation and questions he has throughout practices and video games, together with veteran Fred VanVleet. He was a vital mentor for him, which made the method simpler.
“He helps me with the whole lot,” Sheppard stated. “Any questions I ask, he solutions and elaborates on them and he is simply there for me always. All the blokes are; it isn’t simply Fred. Everybody has been extraordinarily good and useful.”
This text was initially printed on Rookie Wire: Rockets information: Reed Sheppard makes use of preseason to study offense and protection
