New Orleans Pelicans rookie Jeremiah Fears showcased a glimpse of the future, though the team still ended up falling to the New York Knicks.
The New Orleans Pelicans fought hard once again, but also once again fell short against the New York Knicks, losing 121-116. This was close throughout, but the Pelicans just could not get over that four-to-seven-point lead that the Knicks maintained.
New Orleans falls to 25-48, the complete opposite of New York's record. No one wants moral victories, but that might be what the Pelicans must accept at this point. Being able to stay step-for-step with a contender is something that would only feel like a fluke a couple of months ago.
Dejounte Murray had his worst performance of the year with just seven points on 2-of-12 from the field. He remained active, though, finishing with five rebounds and a season-high 12 assists.
Still, this starting unit looks strong together. Outside of Trey Murphy's -13, the rest of the group won or tied their minutes. They are always in these games, but never pull them off.
This was a huge game for Jeremiah Fears, who continues to impress. There could be an argument to be made that this was his best game in the NBA, all things considered. It's already been said, but this is a Knicks team that has serious title hopes and carries a top-five defense in the NBA.
Fears didn't close the game in the final minutes, but he was instrumental in keeping the game within reach. He finished with 21 points, 9-of-12 from the field, a rebound, three assists and two steals with only two turnovers.
The 19-year-old was patient on offense and extremely aggressive on defense, constantly getting into passing lanes. It was a glimpse into the future of what type of player he can become under Dejounte Murray's tutelage. The two have been very close since the draft, and it is starting to show on the court as they play together.
Derik Queen also started well, though he was mostly quiet. For the first time in a while, it was Yves Missi who looked the most out of place in the first half. New York decimated his defensive effect, and it was felt hard.
The Pelicans look a lot better under James Borrego, that's for sure, but they just can't win games. Perhaps it could be as simple as giving them more time together to mesh next season, and finding the final puzzle pieces to bring it all together.
That's going to be a massive decision in the offseason for New Orleans, and can only really be decided upon the 11 games they have had with Murray.