Reed Sheppard gets paid… well, kind of

The Houston Rockets have exercised the fourth-year team option on guard Reed Sheppard's contract for the 2027-28 season. According to Adam Spolane's report, the move guarantees Sheppard slightly over $14 million prior to reaching eligibility for a rookie contract extension. Sheppard is the sixth player among Houston's ten first-round picks drafted between 2021 and 2024 to have his fourth-year option picked up.

Sheppard has earned a regular rotational role after early challenges, serving primarily as Fred VanVleet's backup at point guard and also playing off-ball alongside Marcus Smart. Head coach Ime Udoka noted that Sheppard is continuing to develop his pick-and-roll play, while minor knee and back issues have briefly interrupted his early season appearances.