BREAKING NEWS: Rockets Land Potential Second Coming of Expert Player

Although the Houston Rockets did not make it to the 2024 NBA Playoffs, they achieved a significant turnaround from their 2022-23 season, where they managed only 22 wins. This season, they nearly doubled that number, finishing with 41 victories. To maintain this momentum and continue building for the future, Jonathan Givony of ESPN suggests that the Rockets should select Kentucky Wildcats star Reed Sheppard with their No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, acquired via the Brooklyn Nets.

The Rockets moved forward with their rebuild by hiring coach Ime Udoka and making significant moves in free agency last summer. Given the youthful composition of their roster, Houston might consider plug-and-play options with this draft pick. Shooting is expected to be a priority, and Sheppard’s dynamic shot-making ability—having made over 50% of his three-point attempts this season—combined with his game awareness and defensive skills, makes him an appealing choice. Additionally, Donovan Clingan is another prospect who might be considered, especially if the front office believes he can effectively share the court with Alperen Sengun in lineups featuring multiple big men.

Reed Sheppard to the Houston Rockets?

Sheppard, who has been compared to New York Knicks shooting guard and former Villanova standout Donte DiVincenzo, could provide a significant scoring boost for the Houston Rockets from the backcourt. During his one season in Lexington, Sheppard averaged 12.5 points while shooting an impressive 53.6 percent from the field and 52.1 percent from three-point range.

These are remarkable shooting splits for Sheppard, who also excels defensively, averaging 2.5 steals and 4.1 rebounds per game with the Wildcats. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor makes him an attractive prospect for the Rockets as they continue to build their roster.