Cold hard Reed Sheppard truth Rockets fans must accept

The Houston Rockets need to see growth from Reed Sheppard in 2025-26. Even if they do, it may not be evident in the playoffs.

Arguably, Sheppard's growth is more important than that of anyone else. Sure, a ball-handling leap from Amen Thompson would be critical, but even if he doesn't grow one iota, he's a highly impactful player. Thompson can play as a wing if he's not ready to function as a full-time guard.

Sheppard doesn't have that type of portability. He's exclusively a guard. Meanwhile, the Rockets have one of the best wing rotations in the league - and one of the weakest guard rotations. They need Sheppard to be able to take on a more prominent role this year.

Even if he's ready, it could be difficult for that success to carry into the playoffs.

Rockets can't count on Sheppard when it matters most

Perhaps that's harsh. We shouldn't rule anything out. If Sheppard makes a monumental leap in the regular season, he could carry that growth into the postseason.

Please don't count on it.

"I have a hard time imagining that he could be ready for Oklahoma City, Minnesota...I don't know how much of a difference he'll make in their title odds"

- Adam Mares

The postseason is a weak link endeavor. Sheppard struggled to get on the floor in 2024-25 primarily because of his diminutive size. He's a target- or weak link, if you will - on that end, and that won't fly with Ime Udoka.

Yes, Sheppard has defensive value. He gets a surplus of steals with his quick hands and instincts. That's not going to stop Shai Gilgeous-Alexander from hanging an efficient 40 on him. It's likely to take years for Sheppard to mitigate his height.

How concerning is this?

Rockets can be patient with Sheppard

Let's talk big picture.

Sheppard is a soon-to-be sophomore. He's not "supposed" to be an integral part of a deep playoff run yet. Sheppard is the rare lottery pick to land on a title contender. That puts him in a unique position.

If Sheppard shines in the regular season only to struggle under brighter lights, that should qualify as a successful year for him. It will be meaningful progress.

Still, the Rockets will need to find answers if they have to decrease his minutes in the postseason.

Perhaps they'll simply increase Aaron Holiday's minutes. It may be that Amen Thompson is ready to handle the ball more. Who knows? If this looks like a problem, the Rockets could acquire a new player. They could make a trade or add a guard in the buyout market.

The team will have options. The sky won't fall if Sheppard isn't ready in the postseason, but it's something to account for. The Rockets may need a Plan B:

Even if they also need growth from Sheppard.