Reed Sheppard is a highly-touted prospect expected to be a lottery pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. While many mock drafts have projected him to be picked by either the Houston Rockets or San Antonio Spurs, a recent CBS Sports mock draft has Sheppard slipping down to the ninth pick. Despite this surprising projection, Sheppard’s skills as a shooter and facilitator make it unlikely that he will fall all the way past the sixth or seventh pick.
The question now is where he will be selected, with speculation that he may even go in the top five. David Cobb of CBS Sports suggests that Sheppard could be a strong selection for the Grizzlies at number nine, given their need for a player who can contribute immediately alongside Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Jaren Jackson Jr. The Grizzlies are seen as a team looking to win now as their key players enter their prime years with big contracts. In this context, Sheppard’s combination of skills as a two-way combo guard with a strong 3-point shot could make him an attractive option for Memphis.
While other college players may also be considered by the Grizzlies, Sheppard’s potential to contribute right away could make him a valuable addition to the team. The Rockets are also seen as a natural fit for the former Wildcat due to what they are looking for in the draft. Ultimately, where Reed Sheppard lands in the draft will depend on how teams value his unique set of skills and his potential impact on their roster.
