With the 2024 NBA Draft in the history books, the New Orleans Pelicans have added two new members to their 2024 squad. In the 1st round, the Pelicans selected Baylor big man Yves Missi with the 21st pick. Standing at 6-11 and weighing 235 lbs, Missi addresses the team’s need for a shot-blocking, rim-running athletic big man, especially with Jonas Valančiūnas heading into free agency.
Despite only starting to play basketball in 2020, Missi has shown rapid development. He started 32 of his 34 games for the Bears last season, averaging 10.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game. His athleticism and defensive prowess have drawn comparisons to Mark Williams.
Missi brings an exciting blend of skills to the Pelicans. Known for his finishing ability, shot-blocking, and defensive versatility, Missi’s flashes of face-up offense suggest additional offensive upside. However, he currently lacks shooting and passing skills.
The Magic are trading No. 47 to New Orleans for two future pick swaps (2030 and 2031), per source.
Pelicans GM Bryson Graham indicated that Missi wasn’t initially on NBA scouts’ radar at the start of the 2023-24 season but quickly caught attention with his game performance. Graham recognized Missi’s exceptional intangibles and foundation from day one, highlighting his hardworking, coachable, and humble nature, as well as his strong family background.
In the second round, the Pelicans made a strategic move by trading with the Orlando Magic to acquire the 47th pick, using two future pick swaps. With this pick, they drafted Kentucky sharpshooter Antonio Reeves. Reeves, a 6-5, 200 lbs guard, averaged 20.2 points per game while shooting 47% from downtown in 33 games. He spent his first three college seasons at Illinois State before transferring to Kentucky, where he flourished.
As a senior, Reeves became an All-American and All-SEC First Team performer, leading Kentucky in scoring. While he excels as an off-the-dribble shooter, his defensive capabilities remain a work in progress. Nevertheless, Reeves’ shooting skills makes him a valuable addition in the second round, potentially filling a crucial role as a microwave scorer off the bench.
