For Reed Sheppard, Year One was mostly about unseen hours. Sheppard played in 55 games in the 2024-25 season (including three postseason games), but only saw around 12 minutes of playing time per game. On top of that, he spent some time in the G-League, where it was all about reps, but not much more than that. 

But, with less than a month before Year Two begins, that’s all about to change.

Sheppard’s fortunes flipped overnight after Fred VanVleet suffered a season-ending ACL injury. The former Kentucky Wildcat was poised for a big role off the bench as part of the title-contending Houston Rockets. Now, he’s the starting point guard for a team that will be missing both a steady on-court presence and the leader of a team looking to break out. 

Then again, this may be what Sheppard needed. 

Last season, it was clear that the third overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft just needed opportunities to shine. Sheppard’s G-League stint was proof of that as a green light produced some stellar offensive performances. 

Some of Sheppard’s stellar play was evident even when he returned to the NBA, but it remains to be seen if he can consistently produce over the course of an 82-game regular season and in the postseason. The 21-year old may have spent the last season getting his body ready and we saw some indications of what he could bring to the table. 

Sheppard was active on both ends of the floor and was leading by example in the two summer league games he played in. He was more patient in his approach to offense, taking what the defense was giving to him instead of forcing things. It was clear the Kentucky native learned a lot last year as his offensive package was more diverse and the change of pace was on full display. The inefficiency may have been a product of the wealth of opportunities and the greenest of lights Sheppard can get as a “seasoned vet” in the summer league, but it’s an area he will have to focus on going forward. 

Aaron Holiday is Sheppard’s only competition for the lead guard spot in the Rockets’ depth chart and given his untouchable status within the organization, the starting position is his to lose. Their roles could also depend on how Houston head coach Ime Udoka balances a strong lineup and balancing out the talent to keep the effort sustained for the game. 

Regardless, Year Two will be a big one for Reed Sheppard. The chance to prove his worth is there for the taking and even when Fred VanVleet returns, a good campaign should give him more opportunities in the long run. There are indications Sheppard has worked hard over the last year and this is his moment to let the work come to fruition.