Rockets' Reed Sheppard Out Four Weeks with Thumb Injury

Houston Rockets rookie Reed Sheppard will be sidelined for at least four weeks due to a fractured right thumb sustained during a game against the New Orleans Pelicans. Coach Ime Udoka announced that the injury, affecting the top of Sheppard's thumb, is a relatively favorable outcome, and he will wear a splint during recovery. Despite the setback, the Rockets secured a decisive victory over the Pelicans and continue to hold a strong position in the Western Conference standings. Sheppard, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, averages 3.9 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 1.2 assists this season. His absence might extend into the playoffs, although he is not expected to be a key player in the postseason rotation. Prior to his injury, Sheppard had shown potential by scoring a career-high 25 points against the Oklahoma City Thunder.