Fred VanVleet's future with the Rockets hinges on Reed Sheppard

Reed Sheppard could be key to the Houston Rockets' future | Patrick McDermott/GettyImagesThe Houston Rockets love Fred VanVleet, but they'd love to see the much younger Reed Sheppard replace him. His performance in 2025-26 should dictate VanVleet's future.

Perhaps that's too much pressure for a player of Sheppard's age. That's the reality of the NBA. Sheppard was drafted to a team with short-term title ambitions. Now, he's getting baptized by fire.

By all accounts, the Rockets have high hopes for him. He's slated for a substantial role in the upcoming season. The Athletic's Sam Vecenie is hearing the same.

"I expect him to be the backup point guard this season behind Fred and play 15-20…