Can the Spurs' Defense Shut Down Rockets Rookie Reed Sheppard?

Last year’s No. 3 pick has faced some preseason challenges. Can San Antonio keep it up?

Oct 15, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) warms up prior to the game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images / Erik Williams-Imagn Images

Houston Rockets rookie Reed Sheppard faces a big moment in his young career as he prepares to take on the San Antonio Spurs tonight.

Through his first three preseason games, Sheppard has shown flashes of potential but has struggled with consistency. Averaging just eight points per game on 44% shooting from the field and 14% from beyond the arc, Sheppard’s offensive performance has been underwhelming.

His most promising outing came against the Oklahoma City Thunder, where he scored 11 points on 71% shooting. However, a rough night against Utah, where he managed just four points and went 0-for-4 from three-point range.

The Spurs' defense will likely present Sheppard with his toughest challenge yet.

With defensive stalwarts like Victor Wembanyama, whose shot-blocking presence is already feared throughout the league, and Julian Champagnie, who adds additional size and length, the Spurs have the tools to make life difficult for any guard trying to penetrate their defense.

Chris Paul, although smaller in stature, remains a pesky defender with years of experience frustrating young players, while rookie Stephon Castle’s reputation for defensive intensity only complicates matters further for Sheppard.

His ability to handle defensive pressure, especially from Wembanyama and the Spurs' long wings, will be a major test of his potential.

As tipoff approaches at 7:00 p.m, the spotlight will be on Sheppard to see if he can rise to the challenge or if the Spurs' defense will continue to expose the struggles that have defined his preseason.

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