What the New Orleans Pelicans want to see from their two-way players during training camp this season.
The New Orleans Pelicans kick off training camp this week, and just rounded out their group of two-way players just a few days ago.
While two-way players may not normally be the most exciting group to watch, Pelicans fans saw why they can't be overlooked just last year. Bryce McGowens was a two-way player just last year and earned a standard contract before the season was even over.
They have three more intriguing two-way players this year, who should all bring something a little bit different to the table. Here is what the coaching staff will be looking for from each of them in camp:
F Julian Reese
It doesn't take much thinking to understand why Reese was picked up. He had a solid debut year with the Washington Wizards and deserved another shot in the NBA. He was an elite rebounder. That's the most he had to offer, along with surprising steal production at 1.4 per night.
Overall, as a rookie, across 13 appearances, he had 11.8 points, 10.5 rebounds and 1.8 assists on 52.9% shooting. Anything he can offer on the offensive side of things will be happily accepted by New Orleans, but the focus is going to be on defensive effort and production on the boards.
G Jaron Pierre Jr.
Pierre was their lone draft pick. It was as good as they could do with just one selection towards the end of Round 2. He is a New Orleans native who gets to come back home and perform in front of his family and friends on the Laketown Squadron this year.
The 24-year-old has fun offensive potential as someone who can rock the rim and also shoot the ball from range. His best year in college saw him put up 21.6 points per game while shooting 38.2% from three. He is an older rookie, but that could help him contribute if the team needs anything from him this season.
F/C Malik Dia
Dia was something that was brought up a few times with that one second-round pick the team held in the draft, but they were able to sign him as a free agent afterwards. He had a strong Summer League performance where he started to show some potential as a floor spacer.
The team listing him as a center along with a forward is interesting. He is a little undersized, but is strong and could still offer something as a defender.
