Fears Set to Complete 82-Game Rookie Slate as Pelicans Close Season; Jordan’s Mentorship, Peavy’s Opportunity, Davis Looks Back
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When the New Orleans Pelicans face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Sunday, rookie guard Jeremiah Fears will become the first first-year player in franchise history to appear in all 82 regular-season games. Selected seventh overall last June, Fears said he has not missed a contest since breaking his thumb as a high-school freshman.
“Being able to play all 82 games is big time,” the 19-year-old said. “Not everybody gets the opportunity.”
Fears has averaged 14.0 points, 3.6 rebounds and 3.4 assists in 25.6 minutes. He set a team rookie record with 40 points in Tuesday’s win over Utah and has boosted his scoring to 28.8 points per game across the last five outings. The guard credited strict recovery habits — including daily hot- and cold-tub sessions — for keeping him on the floor.
Jordan’s Off-Court Value
Veteran center DeAndre Jordan, 38, logged only 12 appearances this season, but interim head coach James Borrego praised the 18-year veteran for guiding a youthful roster. “He brought professionalism every day — a voice every day,” Borrego said. Jordan, who is evaluating his future one year at a time, said he has not decided how long he intends to keep playing.
Peavy Makes the Most of Added Minutes
With several regulars resting as the schedule winds down, rookie swingman Micah Peavy posted 20 points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals Tuesday in just his second start. “Take these games super serious,” Peavy said, noting that summer workouts cannot replicate NBA competition.
Davis Revisits 2019 Trade Request
Appearing on Draymond Green’s podcast this week, Anthony Davis explained the rationale behind his 2019 trade demand from New Orleans. The eight-time All-Star said he wanted a title contender and remains frustrated by the $50,000 fine he drew for making the request public. “Because I want to win, I’m considered a villain to this team and to this fanbase,” Davis said, adding that he is still booed when he returns to New Orleans.
Source: Hoops Rumors
