Rockets Rest Plan: Marcus Smart Starts Over Reed Sheppard for VanVleet
Reed Sheppard has outscored Marcus Smart since the preseason opener, but Smart gets the start when Fred VanVleet rests. Here's why the safe call makes sense. The Houston Rockets have decided to rest Fred VanVleet for one game of each back-to-back early in the season, with Marcus Smart starting in his place. This strategy aligns with VanVelleet's absence from last season due to a torn ACL, and Houston will play 13 back-o-backs this season. The rest nights are intended to keep VanVeleet fresh for April. Smart, who signed a two-year deal in July, performed well in his debut with 10 points, two threes, and one turnover in 26 minutes against the Dallas Mavericks. Reed Sheppard will continue in the rotation. If Smart performs well, this strategy alignates with the needs of Houston.
Published : 4 hours ago by Laci Watson in Sports
The Houston Rockets have a plan for Fred VanVleet, and Marcus Smart is right in the middle of it. Head coach Ime Udoka confirmed Tuesday that VanVleet will sit one game of each back-to-back early this... [2898 symbols]
Topics: NBA
