In the same vein as the Phoenix Suns, the New Orleans Pelicans obtain talented players from all across the draft. In the lottery, New Orleans took Oklahoma guard Jeremiah Fears and Maryland big Derik Queen. For the second round, the Pelicans traded for Georgetown wing Micah Peavy. All three players bring impressive skills and talent to a franchise pivoting to a new direction. Each player has their issues as they transition to the NBA. Summer League is a great place for them to test those issues against other NBA-level talents. Let’s delve into one question for each Pelicans rookie playing at Summer League.
2025 NBA Summer League: 1 Question For Each Pelicans Rookie
Jeremiah Fears
Question: Can Fears translate his rim pressure against NBA-level talent?
Unquestionably, the Pelicans have set themselves up with someone who can be their point guard of the future in Fears. He has the talent and skills to be a long-term partner next to Zion Williamson as the lead guard for the team. Fears can certainly generate an immense amount of rim pressure, allowing him to collapse defenses and creating easy looks for his teammates. Undoubtedly, Fears is one of the best guards in this draft class and the right choice for a team in need of a long-term solution at point guard.
Truly, Fears is an excellent prospect who can help the Pelicans. However, he does have one question mark as he plays through Summer League. Specifically, it is whether or not his rim pressure can translate against other NBA-level talents. Considering that the level of athleticism and skill is higher in the NBA, Fears may have trouble generating rim pressure. However, against his competition in Summer League, Fears has sustained his ability to get into the paint. While the finishing hasn’t been consistent, Fears has certainly put up multiple great performances, including a 22-point, six-rebound, and six-assist game against the Thunder. Hopefully, Fears can continue to put up excellent outings at Summer League.
Derik Queen
Question: Can Queen hold up defensively against NBA-level talents?
New Orleans traded for another lottery pick, upgrading their frontcourt with Queen. While he isn’t the best fit next to Williamson, Queen is undoubtedly a talented big whose offensive contributions will make the Pelicans’ frontcourt a devastating force in the paint. He possesses an excellent touch around the rim and can be a playmaking hub out of the post. Queen is no doubt offensively talented; however, he does have a major question as he enters the league. In particular, the question is whether or not Queen can hold up on the defensive end. One of the big knocks on Queen’s game is his poor defense, which will only be amplified in the NBA. The games he played currently have shown that he still has work to do. It is critical for Queen to improve his defense as it will help him stay on the floor.
Micah Peavy
Question: Can Peavy be a consistent three-point shooter?
Given the overall lack of defensive personnel on the Pelicans, taking Peavy was the right choice. The six-foot-seven wing is an impressive defensive talent who can defend multiple positions at a high level. Not only that, but Peavy is amazing at generating steals and playing passing lanes. Additionally, Peavy has improved as a three-point shooter this past season as well, shooting 40% from three. He has the skill set to be a perfect complementary role player next to the stars. However, it still remains to be seen whether Peavy can be a consistent shooter. It was only this past season that Peavy was a good shooter. Peavy has not had many opportunities to score, but he still needs to ensure his shooting remains positive.
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