The New Orleans Pelicans are poised for a pivotal offseason, holding a top-10 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft after a challenging campaign. With rumors swirling and fans eager for a glimpse of the team’s future, all eyes are on who the Pelicans might bring in to reshape their backcourt and energize the franchise.
A Fresh Start in the Backcourt: Jeremiah Fears Poised to Ignite the Pelicans
The Pelicans’ backcourt has seen its share of struggles in recent seasons, often relying on veteran guards who haven’t quite delivered the spark needed to propel the team forward. That’s why the buzz around Oklahoma freshman Jeremiah Fears is so compelling.
At just 18 years old, Fears is one of the youngest prospects in this draft class, but he’s already made a name for himself with an impressive stat line: 17.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game in his lone season at Norman.
🏅 Big moments. Bright future. Jeremiah Fears takes home Male Rookie of the Year!#SoonerSportsAwards pic.twitter.com/2engNkEpcW
— Oklahoma Sooners (@OU_Athletics) April 22, 2025
Speed and a knack for scoring against defenses is what makes Fears special, which the Pelicans are missing. His ability to score by shooting and driving would allow the team another weapon offensively, especially as they work to stay competitive in the West.
Despite struggling with his outside shots, the Pelicans are willing to take it slow with him while experienced players are in front of him.
The need for youth and energy in the backcourt can’t be overstated. As reports put it, “New Orleans needs to infuse their backcourt with youth, as they have several veterans slated in those roles yet has disappointed in recent years.” Fears’ arrival could signal a shift in the team’s approach, prioritizing upside and long-term growth over short-term fixes.
High Upside and Room to Grow
Fears’ potential goes beyond his scoring. He’s shown flashes of being a capable playmaker, with solid assist numbers and a willingness to involve teammates. His defensive instincts are also promising, particularly in disrupting passing lanes- a skill that could translate well as he adds strength and experience at the NBA level.
What makes Fears unique is how composed and mature he is for someone so young. Since he started college as a junior, he got used to playing a leading part and won against better competition. This characteristic will help him adjust to the NBA, where the level of play is higher.
Although Fears has not officially debuted, his potential is definitely sky-high. With the seventh pick, the Pelicans hope Cunningham can turn into a big contributor for their team. Having experienced guards and a good coaching team by his side, Fears might just become the backcourt star New Orleans needs.
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With the No. 7 pick, the Pelicans have a golden opportunity to inject youth, skill, and excitement into their roster. Jeremiah Fears represents not just a fresh face, but a potential franchise-changer whose journey in New Orleans could be just beginning.
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