2024 NBA Mock Draft 2.0: Hawks play it safe, Wizards go big, Spurs fill two needs
By Cal Durrett
3) Houston Rockets-Reed Sheppard
The Rockets are rumored to be considering moving the third overall pick but if they don't, then they may select Kentucky guard Reed Sheppard. Sheppard would be a terrific fit on most teams thanks to his sharpshooting, athleticism, and playmaking.
Spectacular performance from Reed Sheppard in Kentucky's win over Mississippi State. 32 points (11/14 FG), 7 assists, 5 rebounds, 2 steals, 2 blocks and the game-winning shot for the projected lottery pick. pic.twitter.com/cgQsd36BaZ
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) February 28, 2024
Kentucky's Reed Sheppard showed why he's a projected top five pick in a huge road win over Tennessee. 27 points (7/10 3P), 6 rebounds, 5 assists for the best freshman in college basketball. pic.twitter.com/8rucc4tx6e
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) March 10, 2024
Although he doesn't project to be a star at the NBA level, he has the tools to be an above-average player for a long time, and in a questionable draft, that might be the best that Houston can hope for at three. He would probably start off as a sixth-man with the Rockets, splitting time playing next to Fred Van Vleet or Jalen Green in the backcourt, with Sheppard being able to play both with and without the ball.
He drilled 52.1% of his threes at Kentucky, and the hope is that he can eventually become a reliable shooter off the dribble, which would allow him to make full use of his shooting touch. That would raise his offensive ceiling and possibly give the Rockets a long-term option in the backcourt as they look to build a contender. As a result, Houston drafting Sheppard at three seems like the most likely outcome.