Rockets plan to start Tari Eason on Tuesday, Reed Sheppard on Wednesday
Tari Eason started Tuesday’s home game vs. New York, while the Rockets will likely turn back to Reed Sheppard for Wednesday’s game against Milwaukee.
Six games after inserting Reed Sheppard into the starting lineup and removing Tari Eason, Rockets head coach Ime Udoka is going back to his prior formula for at least one game. Citing matchups, Eason started in Tuesday’s game against the New York Knicks (48-27) alongside the usual four starters of Amen Thompson, Kevin Durant, Jabari Smith Jr. , and Alperen Sengun.
Eason brings more size and defensive versatility to the table, while Sheppard is a superior shooter and ball-handler. Udoka did not commit to the latest configuration being permanent. At various junctures of the 2025-26 NBA season, the Rockets have tried Steven Adams, Josh Okogie, Eason, and Sheppard in that role.
Eason played well in a pair of weekend victories over the Memphis Grizzlies and New Orleans Pelicans, averaging 15. 5 points (46. 2% FG, 36.
4% on 3-pointers) and 7. 5 rebounds in 25. 5 minutes.