Reed Sheppard steps into a larger Houston role with VanVleet out, offering potential as a value play with guard-eligibility and increasing playmaking duties.

Sheppard is highlighted as part of Houston’s young core, contributing to a high‐ceiling trajectory alongside Sengün and Thompson.

Sheppard is noted as last year's ROY favorite in prior cycles, indicating continued attention to rookie development and potential pro trajectory within the Rockets system.

Sheppard anchored the second unit when Durant rested, contributing to a 22-14 edge in the bench lineup. His court vision and pace help Houston maintain scoring momentum, presenting a sleeper fantasy upside as a facilitator and opportunistic scorer when paired with Thompson and Eason.

Sheppard steps into larger ball-handling duties as a rookie potential contributor; his development is essential for the offense to function without VanVleet. His growth could determine the Rockets’ ability to sustain a competitive pace.