Reed Sheppard’s performance has been a major talking point for the Houston Rockets during the 2025-26 season. Drafted third overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, Sheppard didn’t get many opportunities in his rookie season. This season, however, he’s been logging significant minutes, with 21 starts and an average of 26.2 minutes per night.
During the regular season, Sheppard averaged 13.5 points, 3.4 assists, and 1.5 steals. He also averaged 2.9 rebounds, while shooting 43 percent from the field, 39.4 percent from deep (on seven attempts) and 80.2 percent from the foul line.
Playoff Pressures and Performance
The playoffs have presented a different challenge for Sheppard. The pressure is higher, and the stakes are significantly greater. The crowds are more intense, and opposing teams have ample time to prepare and adjust their game plans.
This is Sheppard’s first real experience of postseason basketball. Although he was technically on the Rockets’ roster last season, he only played 3.3 minutes per game, which doesn’t really count as playoff experience.
Inconsistent Performances in the Series
Sheppard’s series got off to a rocky start, as he didn’t resemble his regular-season self. In Game 1, Sheppard scored 17 points but needed 20 shots, going 6-of-20 from the field and 5-of-14 from deep. He led the team in total shots and outside shots but also had the most misses.
Game 2 saw Sheppard go scoreless, missing all four of his field goal attempts, including three from beyond the arc. As a result, Rockets coach Ime Udoka only played him for 10 minutes. In Game 3, Sheppard scored 17 points on 21 shots, going 6-of-21 from the field and 4-of-13 from deep. He also had five turnovers.
One of Sheppard’s turnovers in Game 3 played a part in the Rockets blowing a six-point lead with 30 seconds remaining.
Game 4 Turnaround
In Game 4, Sheppard showed significant improvement, scoring 17 points on just 12 shots and making 4-of-7 from long distance. He also contributed three steals, helping the Rockets avoid elimination.
Sheppard posted true shooting splits of 68.3 percent and an effective shooting percentage of 66.7 percent.
Looking Ahead to Game 5
Each game is now a Game 7 scenario for Houston. If Sheppard plays with control and confidence, makes his outside shots, and limits his turnovers, Houston’s chances of extending the series will be much improved.