Saddiq Bey's 42-point explosion stunned the NBA, but the New Orleans Pelicans knew this dominant performance was coming all along.
The New Orleans Pelicans picked up their third straight win on Thursday night, taking care of business against the Utah Jazz on the road. One of the main reasons was the latest star performance from Saddiq Bey, who dropped 42 points on just 20 shots.
Bey's night picked up a lot of buzz from around the NBA world, but nobody in that Pelicans locker room was surprised. This was his fourth game of the season with at least 30 points and 20th with at least 20 points.
The 26-year-old was viewed as a throw-in piece to the CJ McCollum-Jordan Poole swap with the Washington Wizards this past offseason. He's making just $6.1 million and didn't play at all last season as he recovered from an ACL tear.
"For [Bey] to miss all of last year and be as productive as he has been is amazing. It shows the work he put in," said teammate Zion Williamson. "He's been a super important piece for this team. Tonight was just an example of how great he's been all year for us."
Bey has always been a hooper. He dropped 51 points in his second year in the NBA. His teammates are quick to remind everyone about that after each big game he has. This is the player that they know he can be.
"We do expect it, but don't take it for granted. What he's doing is special. He's an amazing human being, a great competitor, clutch, he cares, loves this team, wants to win. He is a winner, and we are fortunate to have him."
Bey's ability down the stretch of games has been one of the most important aspects of his game for this team. With Williamson being the top target and not someone who is looking to shoot the ball, they have needed someone to step up in big moments away from the rim.
There were games earlier this season that New Orleans lost because it looked lost in clutch moments, not really committing to anyone as a closer. Bey has stepped into that role.
One game that really stands out is the comeback win over the Houston Rockets back in December. Bey dropped 29 points and went shot-for-shot with Kevin Durant, one of the most clutch players of all time, to do so.
The former No. 19 overall pick is playing the best basketball of his career. New Orleans will be getting a massive value next year, as he's set to make just $6.4 million. It wouldn't be surprising to see him ink an extension for much more than that afterwards.
He's become a quick fan favorite for the Pelicans, and he has a bunch of supporters inside the building as well.