Pelicans: Who Nickeil Alexander-Walker should watch in the playoffs

Pelicans: Players for Nickeil Alexander-Walker to study- Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks

On a surface level, Young and Alexander-Walker don’t have many similarities. This is true. The young Hawks point guard’s role and game is vastly different. What Young brings at his age, and what Alexander-Walker should look at when playing, is the mentality.

Sure, the incredible shooting and passing are great. But, beyond that, Trae’s mentality and ego is one young players need when making their playoff debuts. The fearless nature of the Atlanta’s point guard is absurd. So often, Young thinks he is the best player on the court and carries himself that way.

Never shy to take a big shot or have a big moment, when comparing his debut to Julius Randle’s, the difference is extraordinary. It seemed at times that Randle was overwhelmed and frightened of the bigger spotlight. Not Trae Young. Young stepped up to the plate and delivered in incredible fashion. Between Ball, Williamson, Ingram and Alexander-Walker, none seem like the verbal leader who will shush crowds and talk trash. Alexander-Walker can be that guy.

That self-confidence and belief will not only do wonders for himself but will rejuvenate and energise a team that looked lackluster throughout this season.