Reed Sheppard shines with career-high 31 points in remarkable Rockets comeback against Warriors
The anticipation surrounding the 2024 NBA Draft was tempered by the fact that it fell between two classes touted as generational. Nonetheless, Reed Sheppard, selected third overall by the Houston Rockets, entered the league with considerable expectations. Coming off a surprising season at Kentucky, he was expected to seamlessly transition into the professional arena, showcasing his shooting ability, high basketball IQ, and adept passing.
However, Sheppard’s rookie campaign was far from smooth. Averaging just over 12 minutes per game, he struggled to find his rhythm, finishing the season with 4.4 points per game on a disappointing 35% shooting. Yet, as often happens with young guards in the NBA, patience became a virtue. Now in his second year, Sheppard is beginning to realize the potential that many believed he possessed.
Finding His Groove
Sheppard’s journey has not been without its hurdles. After a slow start against the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder, he has steadily found his footing in the league. This past Wednesday, he played a pivotal role in orchestrating a stunning 14-point comeback against the Golden State Warriors. With the Rockets missing key players, including Kevin Durant, Sheppard stepped up to lead his team.
In a game that demanded resilience and skill, Sheppard delivered a performance for the ages. He poured in a career-high 31 points, hitting 12 of his 25 attempts from the field. Remarkably, no other Rocket managed to score more than 20 points, underscoring Sheppard’s importance to the team’s success.
A Versatile Impact
Sheppard’s contributions went beyond mere scoring. He displayed an impressive shooting touch from beyond the arc, adding quick-fire three-pointers to his repertoire. His offensive arsenal also included slashing drives to the mid-range and facilitating for teammates, as evidenced by his five assists.
As the game progressed, Sheppard’s performance drew the attention of the Warriors’ defensive stalwarts, who resorted to double-teaming him in critical moments, a testament to his rising influence on the court. In addition to his scoring and playmaking, he showcased his all-around game by grabbing nine rebounds, blocking two shots, and recording a steal.
The Rockets’ comeback victory was not just a win on the scoreboard; it was a statement. Sheppard’s remarkable performance solidified his place as a burgeoning star in the league, hinting at the bright future ahead for both him and the Rockets.
A Night to Remember
As the final buzzer sounded, the Rockets emerged victorious with a score of 104-100, completing a comeback that few expected. Reed Sheppard’s career-high 31 points were the highlight of the evening, propelling Houston to a much-needed win in the NBA Cup. The night belonged to Sheppard, whose emergence as a reliable scoring option is a promising sign for the Rockets as they navigate the challenges of the season.
