In the aftermath of a strong performance at the NBA’s 2024 summer league, expectations are high for rookie guard Reed Sheppard as he begins his professional career with the Houston Rockets.
Thus, to no surprise, Sheppard is a Rookie of the Year favorite in ESPN’s “Summer Forecast” for the 2024-25 NBA season. As part of the annual exercise, ESPN polls a group of its media experts regarding awards predictions and key questions for the new season.
A first-place vote receives five points, a second-place vote secures three points, and a third-place vote earns one point.
For Rookie of the Year, Sheppard — drafted by the Rockets at No. 3 overall in the 2024 first round — was a strong frontrunner with 72 total points and 62% of first-place votes. Memphis big man Zach Edey finished second with 40 points and 14% of the total vote.
Tuesday’s complete results are available at ESPN. Other Rockets who received votes (without leading these categories) are Alperen Sengun, Jalen Green, and Jabari Smith Jr. for Most Improved Player and Ime Udoka for 2024-25 Coach of the Year.
