Reed Sheppard instantly proved Ime Udoka right after nightmare opener

As the Houston Rockets entered their season opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder, many were surprised to find that they would be debuting the double-big lineup so early in the season, meaning that Amen Thompson and Kevin Durant would make up the backcourt and second-year guard Reed Sheppard would be pushed to the bench.

Yet, when Sheppard ultimately did get his minutes on Tuesday night, head coach Ime Udoka's worst fears were instantly confirmed, with Sheppard struggling to stay in front of his man and looking like a target for the opposing offense.

Moreover, his offensive impact does not look to be capable of outweighing his defensive liabilities at the moment, and it will be exceedingly difficult for the team to trust Sheppard to take on a starting role in any form this season.

Reed Sheppard gave all of his critics more fuel in the Rockets' season opener

Last season, as Sheppard came into Houston with high expectations, he largely struggled to crack the rotation as a result of these same issues, averaging 4.5 points, 1.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists on a diet of just 12.6 minutes per night.

As a smaller guard with limited lateral agility, Sheppard represents an easy target for faster opposing guards to blow by en route to the bucket. The Thunder have plenty of these players, and, every time Sheppard came into the game, they took full advantage of his presence.

This became especially glaring when Amen Thompson exited the game late in the fourth quarter with what appeared to be cramps, meaning the team had to pivot to a smaller lineup featuring Sheppard at point guard. This, combined with Houston's foul trouble, ultimately led to their loss in double overtime.

To make matters worse, Sheppard's offensive game has not yet reached the point where he would be a routinely viable player even without considering his defensive setbacks. Last night, he shot just 2-of-7 from 3-point range: a rough look for a player the team desperately needs to help buoy their perimeter shooting.

With Fred VanVleet likely out for the season, the Rockets have very limited choices to take on minutes in their backcourt. Sheppard, no matter what, will likely need to take on significant minutes this season.

However, everyone's worst fears about Sheppard were confirmed in their very first game, and it is difficult to imagine a path to him becoming a viable starter for this team in his second season.