Houston Rockets Shut Down Guard Reed Sheppard During NBA Summer League

The Houston Rockets have decided to shut down second-year guard Reed Sheppard for the remainder of the 2025 NBA Summer League after two games, as reported by multiple sources including Kelly Iko of The Athletic. Sheppard showed promise with a strong debut but struggled with consistency and dealt with a left calf cramp, prompting the team to minimize injury risk given their early 0-2 Summer League record and Sheppard's importance to their future. Despite the mixed performances, Sheppard led the Rockets in scoring and other statistical categories during his limited Summer League action. The Rockets see Sheppard as a key part of their roster moving forward, likely serving as a backup point guard behind Fred VanVleet in the 2025-26 season. The decision aligns with NBA norms where top prospects, especially non-rookies, often play only part of the Summer League schedule. Sheppard will now focus on training camp this fall to build on his development after a disappointing rookie year.