Kentucky's Reed Sheppard displays excellent skills at NBA Draft Combine

Most experts feel the 2024 draft class is weak, but Sheppard is one player who stands out. John Hollinger of The Athletic rates him as the fourth-best prospect in the class.

"That said, there are too many positives in Sheppard's profile to push him any lower than this," Hollinger wrote. "At worst, he's a knockdown shooter, and high rates of assists and steals in particular historically indicate a player who can progress heavily in other areas as he develops."

The 2023-24 SEC Rookie of the Year played for one season at Kentucky. In 33 games, the 19-year-old averaged 12.5 points, 4.1 rebounds and 4.5 assists on an exceptional 53.6 percent shooting.  

Considering his athleticism and shot-making ability, expect Sheppard to be a lottery pick. In their latest mock draft, ESPN draft experts Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo have the Houston Rockets taking Sheppard with the third overall pick.

"Houston could look at plug-and-play options with this pick considering the youthful roster construction," wrote Givony. "Shooting will likely be a priority this summer, and the dynamic shot-making versatility of Sheppard — who made over 50 percent of his threes this season — could be attractive, along with his feel for the game and defensive instincts."

This season, Houston tied for 24th in the league in three-point percentage (35.2 percent). Sheppard would help the Rockets address this issue and form a dynamic duo with 22-year-old shooting guard Jalen Green.