Despite missing the 2024 NBA Playoffs, the Houston Rockets showed significant improvement from their 2022-23 season, where they managed only 22 wins. This season, they nearly doubled that total with 41 victories. To maintain this momentum and build for the future, ESPN’s Jonathan Givony suggests the Rockets should select Kentucky Wildcats star Reed Sheppard with the 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 free-agent acquisitions last summer. With their youthful roster, Houston may prioritize plug-and-play options in the draft, focusing on shooting. Sheppard, who made over 50% of his 3-pointers this season, offers dynamic shot-making versatility, strong game awareness, and defensive skills. Additionally, Donovan Clingan might be considered if the Rockets believe he can pair well with Alperen Sengun in a lineup featuring multiple big men.
Sheppard, likened to New York Knicks shooting guard and former Villanova standout Donte DiVincenzo, could provide a valuable scoring boost for the Rockets’ backcourt. In his season at Kentucky, Sheppard averaged 12.5 points, shooting 53.6 percent from the field and 52.1 percent from three-point range. He also excelled defensively, averaging 2.5 steals and 4.1 rebounds per game.
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