Evaluating Pelicans Draft Picks: Flagg And Harper's Potential

Michael

3 min read

Post on May 17, 2025

4.2

Share

Evaluating Pelicans Draft Picks: Flagg and Harper's Potential to Soar

The New Orleans Pelicans made waves in the 2023 NBA Draft, selecting promising prospects Jordan Hawkins at #14 and Dariq Whitehead at #22, but the real intrigue lies in their two later selections: forward Leonard Miller and guard Gradey Dick. These two players, representing different developmental timelines and skill sets, present both exciting possibilities and intriguing questions for the Pelicans' future. Let's delve into an evaluation of their potential impact.

Leonard Miller: The High-Ceiling Forward

Leonard Miller, selected with the 24th overall pick, is an intriguing prospect. His combination of size (6'10"), athleticism, and developing offensive skills makes him a high-risk, high-reward pick. While he's raw, possessing a relatively limited offensive arsenal compared to other players drafted in his range, his potential is undeniable.

• Strengths: Miller's athleticism is a significant asset, allowing him to excel in transition and attack the basket effectively. His length and defensive instincts are promising, suggesting a strong defensive foundation. He's also shown flashes of a reliable mid-range jump shot that could become a significant offensive weapon.

• Weaknesses: Miller's offensive game needs significant refinement. His ball-handling and decision-making need improvement, and he needs to become more consistent from outside. His overall offensive efficiency needs substantial work.

• Pelicans Fit: Miller fits the Pelicans' timeline perfectly. He can develop alongside Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, learning from established NBA talent. His athleticism and defensive potential could allow him to contribute sooner than expected, even in a limited role.

Gradey Dick: The Sharpshooting Specialist

Gradey Dick, taken at pick #38, is a different kind of prospect. He's a pure shooter, renowned for his impeccable stroke and impressive range. While lacking the same upside as Miller physically, his shooting prowess provides immediate value in the NBA.

• Strengths: Dick’s shooting is his calling card. He's a highly efficient shooter with proven range, a valuable asset in today's NBA. His shooting mechanics are fundamentally sound, suggesting consistency and potential for improvement. He also demonstrates a high basketball IQ and a willingness to move off the ball.

• Weaknesses: Dick's athleticism is somewhat limited, potentially hindering his ability to create his own shot consistently at the NBA level. He'll need to improve his ability to defend at the NBA level against quicker and stronger opponents.

• Pelicans Fit: Dick's shooting ability addresses a specific need for the Pelicans. He could quickly find minutes as a floor-spacer, supplementing the scoring abilities of Williamson and Ingram. His development will likely center on improving his defense and overall offensive versatility.

The Verdict: High Potential, Uncertain Timeline

Both Leonard Miller and Gradey Dick present intriguing possibilities for the New Orleans Pelicans. Miller offers a higher ceiling but requires more patience and development. Dick provides a more immediate impact as a shooter but may have a lower overall ceiling. The success of these selections will depend on coaching, player development, and opportunity. However, both players possess the skills and potential to contribute significantly to the Pelicans' future success. The franchise’s player development program will be crucial to unlocking their full potential. Only time will tell if these picks prove to be shrewd additions or potential missed opportunities. But for now, the excitement surrounding these two young players is palpable amongst Pelicans fans.

What do you think of the Pelicans' draft picks? Share your thoughts in the comments below!