Saddiq Bey erupts for a season-high, leading the New Orleans Pelicans to a nail-biting road victory over the Dallas Mavericks.
The New Orleans Pelicans are going streaking, winning their second game in as many nights. This time, it was an 101-99 defensive battle on the road against the Dallas Mavericks.
Player of the game honors go to Saddiq Bey in this one, who stepped into the starting lineup with both Zion Williamson and Jordan Poole injured. Bey has been a streaky, complimentary shooting this season. He took over in this one.
The 26-year-old finished with a season-high 22 points on 9-of-14 from the field and 4-of-6 from beyond the arc. He led the team in points and tied with Trey Murphy for the lead in rebounds with nine.
Without Bey, this win would not have happened. Even with his efficient contributions, the team shot 42.9/32.3/81.3 splits. Jose Alvarado is the only other player who made more than one three, despite five players attempting at least four.
One thing that did help the Pelicans was that they actually led the game in rebounding, 56-44. It's something that has plagued New Orleans, even in its first win on Tuesday. They also won the offensive rebounding battle 14-10.
It was also another night where Pelicans fans get to feel good about the trade to acquire Derik Queen. He looked incredible again and got more playing time. The rookie finished with 11 points, seven rebounds, two assists and three steals in 26 minutes off the bench.
The former Maryland Terrapins star was heavily criticized on his defense in college, but it has been a strength of his so far in the NBA. He has also looked good closing games out, even being trusted to run the offense down the stretch.
Jeremiah Fears started off strong, but had a poor shooting night.
The less talked about rookie, Micah Peavy, got real minutes as Willie Green managed others players time on the second night of a back-to-back. Peavy didn't hit a shot, but he did look very active on the defensive side of the ball.
The Pelicans secured the win on night where Murphy scored 11 points, Williamson and Poole were hurt and the Pelicans played three rookies for at least 18 minutes. That has to feel good after the nightmare start to the season.
For those that are tracking it, their pick also now drops to the fifth spot on the lottery odds standings. Something that doesn't matter yet, but is still a bit of a weight off the shoulders for now.