Sheppard's Rockets Role: Pros & Cons

0:00From the Daily News Now Network, this is NBA News Today. Subscribe to keep up with every headline, every game. Reed Shepard is stirring up debate among Houston Rockets fans on social media. The young guard is set to keep starting in place of Ford Jabari Smith Jr., who sat out Saturday's loss to the Miami Heat, and will also miss. Mondays match up against the Washington Wizards. This comes as the Rockets look for reliable playmaking from their guards, with Shepard stepping up despite some injuries on the roster. Fans point out that no one else matches his mix of passing and three-point shooting, even if veterans like Fred Van Velead are sideline at times. Opinions are split, though. Some see Shepard as the best option to run the offense, while others argue a contending team should not lean on an unproven rookie like him, comparing him unfavorably to legends such as John Stockton. Shepard has shown real ups and downs this season. Just before the Miami Game, he exploded for 17 points in the second half against the Orlando Magic, hitting five of seven from deep to help.

1:01Overcome an 18-point hole, but against Miami, he struggled badly, going one for eight from the field and zero for five from three-point range, including a scoreless fourth, quarter on zero for five shooting. Rockets coach Eme Udoca gave him a longer-leash Saturday, playing him 35 minutes despite defensive pressure. Mondays' Wizards game offers Shepard a chance to bounce back and build confidence as he works through these early challenges. This episode is brought to you in partnership with our sponsor. What is cooler than cool? A pillow that plays your sound, S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com.