Rockets' Reed Sheppard coming off bench Thursday

Rookie guard to play reserve role with Jabari Smith returning from ankle injury

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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Rockets rookie guard Reed Sheppard, who has started the team's last two games, will come off the bench for Thursday's matchup against the Warriors. Sheppard is making way for the return of starting forward Jabari Smith, who has been sidelined with an ankle injury.

Why it matters

Sheppard has shown promise in his increased playing time, recording a dominant double-double with six steals in the Rockets' last game. His move to a reserve role indicates the team is prioritizing getting their regular starters back on the floor as they continue to fight for playoff positioning in the Western Conference.

The details

Sheppard has started the Rockets' last two games, but will revert to a bench role for Thursday's contest against the Warriors. This is due to the return of starting forward Jabari Smith, who has been out with an ankle injury. Sheppard is coming off an impressive double-double performance with six steals in the team's previous game against the Wizards.

  • Sheppard has started the Rockets' last two games.
  • Jabari Smith has been sidelined with an ankle injury.

The players

Reed Sheppard

Rookie guard for the Houston Rockets.

Jabari Smith

Starting forward for the Houston Rockets who is returning from an ankle injury.

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The takeaway

The Rockets are looking to get their regular starting lineup back on the floor as they push for a playoff spot, even if it means reducing the playing time of a promising rookie like Sheppard who has shown he can contribute at the NBA level.