New Orleans Pelicans: Dyson Daniels’ block has Internet buzzing

One of the big questions coming into the preseason for the New Orleans Pelicans was whether rookie Dyson Daniels would be ready for the rotation.

Daniels went out after just eight minutes in Summer League with an ankle injury and there was concern that missed time would hold him back at the start of the season.

But the rookie put those fears to rest in four preseason appearances by fillling the stat sheet, averaging 7.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, two assists, two steals and a block in 18.5 minutes per game.

His shooting was up and down as you would expect, but he showed the potential to be devastating in transition and was fearless trying to get to the rim, which has been an offensive strategy for the Pelicans early on.

But what was really impressive was Daniels’ defense, as the rookie was flying around and making plays all over the court. He has the potential to be an X-factor for the Pelicans on the defensive end with his ability to guard several positions effectively, much the same way Herb Jones changed the Pels’ culture with his defense last season.

Daniels was at it again last night against the Hawks, as he once again showed lockdown potential, including on an amazing blocked shot that had the entire Internet buzzing.

New Orleans Pelicans: Dyson Daniels’ spectacular block

Fellow rookie AJ Griffin looked to have an open lane for a fast break dunk but Dyson Daniels had different ideas.

The Pels’ guard timed this perfectly and manage to pull off the spectacular block without fouling, which was even more impressive when you saw it in slow motion:

Daniels doesn’t try to body the shooter, but instead goes to where the ball is going to be, which Antonio Daniels astutely pointed out on last night’s broadcast. This is the sign of a plus shot blocker, as Daniels has timing and smarts to go along with his length and athleticism.

As coach Willie Green said, Daniels is fearless on defense, which he showed here, but that block was one that you don’t see out of too many rookies, as he managed to do it without fouling, which started a break going the other way.

Daniels’ defense is going to play in the rotation right away and he has the chance to be elite on that end, which is going to make the Pelicans very versatile defensively.