The 2024-25 season was a total disaster for the New Orleans Pelicans, finishing with a 21-61 record. One of the only bright spots last season was Yves Missi, who had a tremendous rookie year and led the Pelicans in games played with 73. Missi already has a great size at 6'11 235 pounds, but has told the media he is adding to that frame. This is big news and may help the Pelicans in their pursuit of title contention.
After a summer league practice, a reporter asked Missi, “You look like you’ve added weight this offseason?” Missi replied, “A little bit, a little bit. Working on my strength obviously, get a little bigger, not being pushed around. That’s the goal for the entire summer."
This is extremely encouraging to hear, as Missi is not shying away from putting in the work to ensure he has an even stronger year two. Coming off a rookie season with averages of 9.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game, he could've become complacent. Instead, he's holding himself accountable and reflecting on what he needed to do or work on in the offseason.
Accountability has been lacking in the Pelicans organization, so for someone as young as Missi to act this way will ultimately benefit the organization in the long term. This also makes Missi's presence at summer league extremely valuable as he can set the standard for guys like Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen, who are gearing up for their rookie seasons.
A dominate year is on the horizon
Missi had a monster season in 2024-25 as a rookie, and now with more experience as well as added weight, he's bound to be an even bigger difference maker next season. Coming out of Baylor, he was a dominant rim protector not just because of his shot-blocking skills, but rather because of the size advantage he had over other college athletes. However, with some added muscle, that college dominance will now translate better to the NBA.
Missi’s time in the summer league will likely be short-lived. Given the drop-off in competition from the regular NBA, he’s expected to dominate early and prove he’s outgrown this level of play. He can then spend his time refining his game and preparing to compete for the starting center spot for the 2025-26 season.
While I’ve been in favor of Kevon Looney starting at the five next season, thanks to his experience and battle-tested defensive ability, Missi’s physical development is beginning to change that outlook. With him now adding to his frame, the Pelicans' path to true contention may be better unlocked by giving Missi the starting role. Whether his breakout comes this season or next, it feels inevitable that he’ll soon be among the best centers in the NBA.