The New Orleans Pelicans have wrapped up their first batch of preseason games under Jamahl Mosley. While it wasn’t perfect, there is some earned optimism around the team from an operation standpoint.

There is a lot of growth needed on both sides as they continue to build a rhythm in this new scheme, but there was a lot to like as well. The promised defensive intensity showed up. While offense has more to do, some individuals showed some great things.

Here are the Pelicans players who showed the most:

Fears had one of the better preseasons in all of the NBA. He got a ton of run, which was needed, and looked spectacular for almost all of it.

It feels repetitive to say at this point given that he stood out and received praise after pretty much every game, but it’s been earned.

Fears looks stronger, more confident and cleaner in pretty much each aspect. His jump shot, in particular, looks much improved. That’s part of the work he’s been putting in this offseason.

Matkovic simply has to be involved in the game plan this season. He had a great offseason stint in the FIBA qualifiers and has ridden that confidence into the preseason. 

The center remains an elite athlete who seems to be a great fit for what they want to accomplish on defense, and is the only real floor spacer that they have up in the front court.

New Orleans didn’t “upgrade” at center this offseason, but Matkovic and Yves Missi both taking leaps could act as the same thing. This preseason was a promising start for both.

Poole is in a contract year and coming off the most frustrating season of his career. He looks like he’s approaching this campaign with every bit of urgency that it requires.

The guard was a poor fit for whatever the leadership was trying to do last season, but has taken the assignment from Mosley head-on. The coach has been very positive on what the veteran guard has brought.

The shooting percentages have gone back up, but it’s not just that. Poole has been active and willing on defense, which is what is going to get him back on that court. 

While it looked like he could be out of a role this season after how poor last year went, it appears as though he will still be involved. Very earned, but now it needs to continue into the year.