This is part two of my series where I'll be giving goals for the entire New Orleans Pelicans roster ahead of the 2025-26 season. Previously, I started with rookie guard Jeremiah Fears, and today the trend of rookies continues with Pelicans second-round pick Micah Peavy.
When Peavy was taken 40th overall by the Pelicans I thought it was a reach and a major mistake, but quickly I learned that this pick was no mistake. At 24 years old, Peavy comes in as an extremely mature prospect and someone who could have an impact from day one.
While I don't expect him to get a crazy amount of run in his rookie campaign, I really think he should. With his 6'7" 215-pound frame, he has the ideal body of a modern NBA wing. Pairing that with his unreal intensity and effort on the defensive end, the Pelicans could have a serious problem coming off their bench.
During his time playing Summer League, he averaged 2.5 steals per game as he was an absolute menace in passing lanes and as an on-ball defender.
Outside of Jose Alvarado and Herb Jones, the Pelicans don't really have another disruptive defender, leaving the door wide open for Peavy.
Make the most of opportunities and show out in the G League
Unlike his fellow rookie Jeremiah Fears, I don't see a world where Peavy plays enough to earn potential All-Rookie team honors, so there's no reason to set that as a goal.
Instead, I think if he can just have a positive impact in the games he plays, that'll be enough for the front office to view his rookie season as a success. I know this sounds broad, so to be more specific, I mean coming off the bench, locking down the best player on the opposing team's second unit, generating turnovers in the passing lanes, and hitting open shots.
If he does those things, he'll be a staple in New Orleans' rotation by the time his second year comes around.
Another way I think Peavy can achieve success during his rookie campaign is by showing he doesn't belong in the G League.
Like all second-round picks, Peavy will likely log some time in the G League during his rookie season. The G is an excellent place for Peavy to show there's more to his game than lockdown defense. Down there, he can showcase his catch-and-shoot skills and demonstrate just how much of a beast he is in the open floor.
We've seen in years past that for Pelicans second-round picks, making the most of opportunities is everything, just look at Herb Jones. So, whether it's in the NBA or G League, Peavy needs to make the most of any chances he gets.