Yes, look for a deadline deal if Reed disappoints us again. It might not be for a starter, might just be for a 6th man type, but he will be replaced quickly if he isn't working out. But you can't cut bait on your 21yo #3 pick after just his rookie season. They have to give him a chance to show his stuff. This first half of the season is it.
By all appearances, they're giving Reed the keys. Aside from Shepard, FVV & Holiday the only other guards on the entire roster are Jeenathan Williams who was on a two way for most of last year and only saw 147 total minutes in 27 games & Kevon Harris who's on a two way this year after nothing but a 10 day deal with Atlanta last season, played a whopping 6 minutes over 2 games for Orlando in 23/24. He did play in 34 games averaging ~13 minutes per in 22/23. (What am I missing here? There had to be a better guard option than Harris for that two way). One proven rotation worthy guard on the entire roster .... yeah, Reed contributing or not will be a huge factor in this season.
I'm heavily buying Reed Sheppard stock but if hes more than a solid to high impact role player I will be shooketh. I expect 20-25mpg and something like 12/2/2 on 49/39/85
I don't see the comp to Price. Price was crazy fast with the ball, had a deadly jump shot, and was one of the most creative players ever. He was the first to do some of the things players commonly do today, like pulling up on the break to drain a 3 and splitting double teams.
I'm choosing to believe it's not mere coincidence that every time Reed has been "given the keys", he's been fantastic. Summer League: 20/5/5 with 4 stocks on 56.1% TS GLeague: 31/5/7 with 3 stocks on 65.8% TS NBA Starter: 20/3/5 with 2.7 stocks on 64.3% TS
He could be basically the perfect guy next to Amen down the road if he reaches his potential. Elite floor spacer and very good connective passer. Let's hope he gets there
