New Orleans Pelicans: Rookie Kira Lewis Jr. is impressing the veterans

When the New Orleans Pelicans drafted Kira Lewis, Jr. out of Alabama with the 13th pick, his speed was the top talking point of his game.

As the New Orleans Pelicans start workouts, the rookie is already impressing the vets, and it’s not speed that is top of mind for JJ Redick.

He told reporters on Tuesday that although he doesn’t really watch much college basketball, Kira Lewis Jr’s shooting ability has really stood out during these first few practices.

Redick also made an interesting point about Lewis: he is “coachable”.

Lewis is also leaning on fellow Alabama native and new Pelican, Eric Bledsoe. He said that Bledsoe has taken him under his wing, helping to show him how to transition his game from college to the NBA.

Bledsoe told reporters earlier this week that one of the top things he told Lewis: slow down.

"“That just comes from the excitement of being here. To play in the NBA at his age, he’s excited to be here. He definitely has to slow down a bit, but I see a great talent in him.” Related Story: Fansided 250: Was Zion Williamson snubbed?"

As the Pelicans social media team is updating us with what’s going on during training camp, it’s clear Lewis is taking every opportunity to soak up any knowledge he can from his teammates.

Christian Clark of NOLA.com/Times-Picayune spoke to Lewis’ AAU coach a few weeks ago about what he can bring to the team. Being a “sponge” and a “student of the game” were two comments that stood out from Cory Underwood.

Based on what we’ve seen and heard from Lewis and his teammates, that rings true during the early days of practice.

While no one really expects Lewis to start or even be a huge contributor early in the season, there’s no doubt based on comments from Van Gundy in press availabilities this week, he’ll see some significant playing time.

We all know he will definitely have a learning curve, and the lack of additional preseason games will mean his experience will be gained during games that actually count, patience is going to be key for Lewis’ success, not just for him but for the fans as well.