Reed Sheppard's unique gifts could save the Rockets defense

Some Houston Rockets fans have wondered whether Reed Sheppard can fit into the team's defensive-first mindset. Against the Hawks in Thursday's preseason contest, he may have eased some concerns. Sheppard finished with a remarkable 4 steals and 3 blocks.

'That's not a typo. Despite his diminutive frame, Sheppard blocked 3 shots. His hands aren't just quick - they're an outlier athletic quality.

It's something the Rockets ought to work around.

Rockets should build defense around Sheppard

Some will be quick to point out that stocks alone don't measure defensive impact. To gauge a defender, you have to watch the games. Fair. To be sure, Sheppard's size and limited lateral mobility will make him a target on defense at times.

That's true. It's also reminiscent of conversations we were once having about Alperen Sengun. Folks questioned whether the Rockets could build an effective defense around him.

How did that work out?

In 2024-25, the Rockets had the fifth-best Defensive Rating in the NBA at 110.3. Ime Udoka proved that as long as a player has a desire to defend and some abilities, he'll find a way for them to contribute. Udoka had Sengun defending at the level with tremendous success.

Surely, there's a way to accommodate Sheppard as well.

If Thursday's game is any indication, the juice will be worth the squeeze. Sheppard's defense wasn't the only part of his game to pop:

He looked like a star in general.

Rockets' Reed Sheppard retains impressive upside

Sheppard finished with 29 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists in a dominant win over the Hawks.

If you're an Atlanta fan, you may want to raise the alarm. The Hawks largely leaned on their regular-season rotation, while the Rockets played mostly fringe NBAers. Their entire attack was built around Sheppard:

And they won 133-115.

Don't let Sheppard's tumultuous rookie year fool you. This kid can play basketball. Sheppard has the potential to be a primary playmaker in the NBA.

Still, if he's a defensive liability, it won't be with the Rockets. That's Ime Udoka's driving philosophy. That's what makes this situation interesting:

Sheppard may be one of the most unique defensive cases in the NBA.

Four steals and three blocks are the stuff Defensive Player of the Year candidates are made of. It was an incredible performance. It's not everything, but it would be hard to say it's nothing.

It's something the Rockets need to start building around.