Udoka praises Shepard’s significant improvement! He favors Durant and Jabari as a duo reminiscent of Lewis and Tecoglu.

On October 2nd Beijing time, Rockets head coach Udoka gave an interview where he commended Shepard’s progress, believing he can partially fill the gap left by VanVleet’s absence. Additionally, Udoka spoke about Durant and Jabari Smith Jr., saying this pairing reminds him of the former Magic duo Tecoglu and Lewis.

Regarding Shepard, Udoka remarked, “His effort is evident, and throughout the season his confidence has steadily grown, with many standout moments. When many starters were out and he got opportunities, he played impressively. His talent is undeniable... I believe Shepard can cover some of VanVleet’s roles, such as off-ball movement, shooting, and creating chances for teammates — all areas where he delivers.”

Why hadn’t Shepard met expectations earlier? Udoka explained, “Sometimes he lacked confidence and hesitated too much, and the intensity on both ends of the floor occasionally affected him. Many players break through between their first and second years; judging by his offseason, he has made clear progress.”

Udoka also pointed out that even if VanVleet wasn’t injured, Shepard would still play a key role — because he offers contributions that many other Rockets players cannot: “Regardless of VanVleet’s status, Shepard will get more chances this season. His skill set and the support he provides are exactly what the team needs. Generally, when given opportunity, players step up. He has worked hard on defense, physical condition, and toughness, and is ready for the challenge.”

Rockets center Capela, who has played alongside elite point guards like Paul, Harden, and Trae Young, has insight into guard play and also recognizes Shepard’s ability: “This kid is ready now; this is his moment. We need him, and as his minutes increase, he will improve even more.”

Next season, the Rockets have many lineup options, blending new and veteran players. One highly watched pairing is the tall wing duo: Durant and Jabari Smith Jr., whose playing styles are often compared.

Durant stands 2.11 meters tall and is one of the most technically skilled perimeter players in NBA history. He combines point guard-like ball handling with quick release and has always been a top executor of “mismatch offense,” easily scoring over smaller defenders. Jabari Smith Jr. is 2.08 meters tall; although his skills aren’t as polished as Durant’s, he often operates on the perimeter. He has shown some ball-handling ability and shot 35.4% from three last season.

Since becoming teammates, Jabari has taken on the role of an “apprentice” learning from Durant, who is one of the few players whose style resonates with his own and helps him unlock his full potential. Udoka said, “Jabari is like a sponge, constantly absorbing knowledge and training alongside Durant to learn his strengths — of course, he is also naturally developing on his own.”

Given Jabari’s progress, his pairing with Durant perfectly fits the Rockets’ team identity of “height advantage plus versatility.” Whether they play as shooting guard and small forward or small forward and power forward, Udoka has strong confidence in this duo: “One of them always creates a clear advantage; both can handle inside and outside play and execute a variety of ball-handling offensive moves.”

This unique combination of “height plus perimeter skills” reminds Udoka of a famous duo from his playing days: “It brings to mind Rashard Lewis and Hedo Turkoglu, who almost every night had one player dominating.”

Lewis and Turkoglu, both 2.08 meters tall, helped Stan Van Gundy’s Magic build a versatile lineup of big perimeter players. Durant and Jabari have multiple ways to create dynamic offensive chemistry, and it seems Udoka already has a clear tactical plan in mind.