On August 21, American media outlet ESPN made predictions for various awards in the upcoming NBA season, and through scoring, Sheppard is considered to be the likely Rookie of the Year for the new season.
The specifics are as follows:
1. Sheppard 74 points
2. Zach Idi 40 points
3. Klinge 27 points
4. Castle 23 points
5. Dillingham 10 points
6. Sall&Lisashay 8 points