Rockets' Sheppard and Thompson in Early Awards Race | Houston Rockets News

ESPN insiders are buzzing about Houston Rockets’ rising stars, with Amen Thompson emerging as a top Defensive Player of the Year contender and Reed Sheppard locked in as a serious Sixth Man of the Year candidate. Sheppard’s breakout last season—career highs in scoring, assists, rebounds, steals, and shooting percentages—has caught national attention, especially with key veterans like Fred VanVleet and Marcus Smart now on board to support him. With Coach Udoka’s bench poised for a major upgrade, Sheppard could be the spark that turns Houston’s second unit into a championship-caliber force. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/d3148737cfe2b73a