TITLE: Udoka Tests New Look as Sheppard Joins Rockets’ Starting Five, Ending Hawks’ 11-Game Streak
SLUG: rockets-start-sheppard-eason-bench-durant-chasing-jordan-sengun-healthy
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HOUSTON — Head coach Ime Udoka shook up the Rockets’ rotation Friday night, elevating second-year guard Reed Sheppard to the starting lineup in a 117-107 victory that snapped Atlanta’s 11-game winning streak.
Sheppard, starting for the 11th time this season but for the first time with both Jabari Smith Jr. and Tari Eason active, supplied 14 points, four rebounds and four assists in 25 minutes while hitting 4-of-7 from beyond the arc.
“Just another threat outside the three-point line, somebody that can create for us and himself,” forward Kevin Durant said. “All the great basketball teams have multiple guys who can create for themselves and others. We’ve got five guys who can put the ball on the floor, make a play, knock down the shot, so we have to utilize that.”
Udoka told reporters he wants to evaluate the new alignment ahead of the postseason. “Obviously Reed has taken a nice step lately,” the coach said. “I wanted to have more spacers out there and get a last look at something before the playoffs.” He stopped short of committing to Sheppard as a permanent starter, saying he will review the move over the next few games.
Eason Moves to Sixth-Man Role
With Sheppard promoted, Eason shifted to the bench after a recent shooting slump. The third-year forward had missed 23 consecutive three-pointers before finally connecting in the third quarter Friday. Asked what guidance he offered during the drought, Smith said, “You didn’t get to the league knocking down three-point shots. Impact the game how you impact the game. The other stuff is going to come naturally.”
Durant Nears Jordan on Scoring List
Durant now trails Michael Jordan by 25 points for fifth place on the NBA’s career scoring chart. Speaking with The Athletic’s William Guillory, the 37-year-old credited Jordan for shaping his offensive approach. “Jordan has always been my inspiration,” Durant said. “When he became a mid-range maestro, you never knew how he would attack you. He scared defenders every night, and I wanted to put that same kind of fear in the defender guarding me.”
Sengun Cleared Despite Back Tightness
Center Alperen Sengun, a two-time All-Star whose season has been uneven, was listed as questionable for Saturday’s game against Miami because of back tightness. Udoka later confirmed the 23-year-old will be available.
The Rockets continue their evaluation period with four regular-season games remaining before the playoffs.
Source: Hoops Rumors
