The Rookie of the Year Case for Pelicans Center
Yves Missi has been a standout Rookie of the Year candidate for the New Orleans Pelicans, who are sitting at the bottom pole of the Western Conference. The 21st overall pick is averaging 9.2 points per game, 8.1 rebounds per game, and 1.4 assists per game. He is also averaging 0.6 steals per game and 1.4 blocks per game, first among rookies. He is also first in offensive rebounds among rookies, averaging 3.6 per game.
The rookie has brought something that the Pelicans have desperately been missing: rim protection. Missi is excellent at timing his rotation and protecting the rim. Missi has been a fantastic upgrade as he is flourishing with his help defense and altering shots. Missi’s presence has allowed the Pelicans’ perimeter defenders to stay home on shooters more often.
On the offensive end, the big man has a great feel to time his roll and dive to the rim. Missi and Dejounte Murray operate the pick-and-roll well where it leads to Missi dunking the basketball or Murray driving into the lane for a floater. He has a great feel for offensive rebounding. Missi is constantly in the right spots for missed shots, whether it hits the front rim, the back heel, or an airball.
Missi’s case for ROTY is a strong one. He has so much room to grow and he’s shown his strengths on a nightly basis. His strengths are protecting the rim, getting offensive rebounds, and dunking the basketball on the roll. While the Pelicans’ season has been derailed by injuries, Missi has been their brightest spot.
