Rockets to Start Tari Eason Tuesday, Reed Sheppard Wednesday

Rockets coach Ime Udoka reversed his recent change for Tuesday’s home game. Tari Eason returned to the starting five against the New York Knicks to help match up with their front line.

Lineup decision and matchups

The starting quintet on Tuesday included Amen Thompson, Kevin Durant, Jabari Smith Jr., Alperen Sengun, and Tari Eason. Udoka said matchups drove the choice. He did not call the move permanent.

The team has rotated the fifth starter throughout the season. Steven Adams, Josh Okogie, Tari Eason, and Reed Sheppard have all seen starts this year.

Player roles and recent form

Eason offers added size and defensive versatility on the wing. He played well in a two-game stretch over the weekend.

In victories over Memphis and New Orleans, Eason averaged 15.5 points and 7.5 rebounds. He shot 46.2 percent from the floor and 36.4 percent on triples in 25.5 minutes.

Sheppard remains the team’s primary shooter and ball-handler option off the bench. His recent numbers, however, have dipped.

Over his last four outings, Sheppard shot 31.4 percent overall and 27.8 percent from three. He has attempted about 9.0 threes per game in that span.

Schedule, outlook and playoff considerations

The Rockets to start Tari Eason Tuesday, with Reed Sheppard likely to return to the starting lineup on Wednesday. Udoka signaled Sheppard would probably start against the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday.

Houston faces Milwaukee (29-45) on Wednesday and Utah (21-55) on Friday. Both teams are, on paper, easier opponents than New York (48-27).

Sheppard first moved into the starting five on March 20. Udoka has said that assignment was not permanent and will be reassessed before the playoffs.

After Wednesday, the Rockets have six regular-season games remaining. Udoka wants to settle on a consistent fifth starter before the postseason begins.

Filmogaz.com will monitor any further lineup changes and report updates before tipoff. Stay tuned for game recaps and analysis.