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Reed Sheppard · The calendar may have labeled it to be mid-November in the always-chilly Windy City, but after already burying two 3-pointers during the Houston Rockets’ all-but-decided victory, Reed Sheppard had only one thing on his mind: heat check buckets. Urged by his head coach to be more aggressive in hunting for his shot, 2024’s No. 3 pick prepares to introduce the Chicago Bulls’ defense to a “bullseye,” first by keeping within the peripheral view of his teammate. Appropriately rocket-like in his immediate launch before Jevon Carter can react, Sheppard cans a catch-and-shoot 3-pointer, turning his late-game percolation into a full-on sizzle. The Rockets were left with plenty to smile about on November 17, 2024, as they cruised to a 36-point win, allowing for their franchise’s best 14-game start since 2020. Incredible, given the brief 19-minute sample size, Sheppard commanded center stage temporarily through 12 points (on four-of-seven shooting), two rebounds, one assist, three blocks, and four 3-pointers. · State of Mint · State of Mint