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Yves Missi · Aggressive enough throughout the offseason to begin thinking about a higher ascent up the Western Conference’s contention ladder, the New Orleans Pelicans knew that to some degree, there would be question regarding their new-look frontcourt. Through one explosive leap, their No. 21 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft soared in to answer said skepticism with exclamation, on Opening Night at the very least. Finding his hustle-heavy approach well-received during his first quarter of regular-season NBA action, Missi — like predator hunting prey — slows his stride, perceiving Josh Giddey’s intention to drive from a mile away. Blending the best of his 38½-inch vertical and 7-foot-2 wingspan into an unstoppable combination, Missi takes flight, swatting the layup try away authoritatively. Missi, offering one of the 2024-25 season’s best first impressions, turned in 12 points (on five-of-eight shooting), paired with seven rebounds, one steal, and three blocks, helping New Orleans upstage the Chicago Bulls on October 23, 2024. · State of Mint