These three New Orleans Pelicans stars could surprise people this year with their play.
The New Orleans Pelicans are hoping to surprise a lot of people this season, as they are being picked to finish outside of the postseason once again. If they are to actually prove any doubters wrong, they're going to need some people to step up their production from last year.
Here are the top candidates to finish with a better year than what most would expect based on where they are in their career right now:
G Jeremiah Fears
Fears was the No. 7 overall pick last year. He isn't necessarily someone who is being under-appreciated, but he has a chance to attack this season head-on and take a big leap in season two. Given that he was benched as a rookie, and probably won't start the season in the starting lineup, people may overlook him.
The 19-year-old has barely left the gym since the season began. He said he took a break of less than a week before it was back to work. He also spent a lot of time learning from Dejounte Murray, who has done a great job of embracing a leadership role on this team.
Fears' best path to surprising folks is with his three-point production. He had flashes of being an elite shooter, but it wasn't consistent.
C Yves Missi
Missi has received a ton of praise from the coaching staff, but he is still widely underrated. Few people who don't follow the Pelicans closely would guess that he was an elite rim protector last season.
The 22-year-old is set to take on a major role on the team this season, especially on defense. While many would assume Derik Queen is New Orleans' starting center, it actually appears as though Missi will do it.
Missi saw his numbers and minutes drop in season two, but his play improved. He's going to continue to improve this year.
SF Bennedict Mathurin
Mathurin is also a former top-10 pick, but is on his third team in the past two seasons. He didn't receive a big contract and is assumed to be taking on a smaller role with the Pelicans.
This front office is a huge fan, and the rest of the roster has been very complimentary. He could be a sneakily big addition, adding a better defensive presence on the wing. Like Fears, he has the potential to transform the offense if he can find some rhythm with his shot.
