A training camp preview for New Orleans Pelicans forward Saddiq Bey.
The New Orleans Pelicans kick off training camp in under a month, which means it is time to start preparations for the season. As the roster comes into shape, it's important to take stock of where everyone is heading into camp.
After trading away their first-round pick a year ago to move up and acquire Derik Queen, the only draft selection the Pelicans made this time around was hometown guard Jaron Pierre Jr. Pierre is a fun offensive weapon who has the potential to grow into a legitimate NBA rotation piece.
State Of His Career
Given that New Orleans wants to win, and they have a full roster of mouths to feed already, Pierre is going to begin his career on a two-way deal, spending a lot of the time in the G League. That's probably the best-case scenario for pretty much everyone involved.
Pierre will get more opportunities and shots up in the G League. The Pelicans also moved their team from Birmingham to 20 minutes away in Kenner, giving the guard the chance to go home and play in front of his friends and family again.
He was a late bloomer in college, but dropped 21.6 and 17.6 points per night over his final two years. He's the type of athlete who can both fly for dunks and step back deep into range.
One Area Where He Must Grow
The biggest reason that Pierre isn't going to see more time in the NBA this year is because of his defense. He is a smaller player who didn't prioritize that in college. If he can bring a high motor and add a little bit of muscle, then he has the tools to be a better defender.
Pierre did rebound well in college for a guard, 4.1 for his career, so it goes to show that he could be willing to do what it takes. If he doesn't, he may never see the active roster.
Best-Case Scenario For Training Camp
For a second-round rookie, he needs to just keep his head down and listen. There's no reason to do too much, because his path to playing this is loaded with proven talent. He just needs to get adjusted to life in the NBA, work on the court and put up as many buckets as possible this week. The coaches will give him what he needs to eventually make it onto the court; he just needs to execute.
