Jeremiah Fears is facing a tough rookie season with the New Orleans Pelicans, characterized by difficult defeats and ongoing growth. Despite these setbacks, the young shooting guard remains hopeful about the team’s future and believes the lessons learned will contribute to their long-term success.
Learning From Close Losses
In a discussion with Sam Yip of HoopsHype, Fears highlighted how closely contested games have offered critical insights. He stated,
“Being able to lose to understand how to win, I think that’s huge,”
and added,
“We’ve been in a lot of very close games. We just got to learn how to finish. And I think once we learn how to finish, we’ll be really, really good and we’ll end up flipping the switch.”
Anticipating a Key Addition to the Roster
The Pelicans expect a boost with the impending return of Dejounte Murray, who is recovering from injury. According to Rod Walker of NOLA, the team is targeting Tuesday’s game against the Golden State Warriors for Murray’s season debut.
Coach’s Confidence in Murray’s Return
Interim coach James Borrego expressed optimism, saying,
“I expect him to be there in the next couple games,”
and
“Hopefully it’s Tuesday night. We’d all be excited for that.”
Looking Ahead for the Pelicans
Jeremiah Fears’s rookie optimism reflects a team learning to navigate adversity, with the Pelicans poised to improve once key players like Murray return. This combination of youthful determination and strategic additions signals potential progress as the season continues.
James Borrego on Dejounte Murray: "I expect him to be there in the next couple games. Hopefully it's Tuesday night. We'd all be excited for that."
— Rod Walker (@RodWalkerNola) February 21, 2026
Southwest Notes: JJJ, Iisalo, Fears, Murray, Durant https://t.co/kQU6jwWwGq
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) February 22, 2026
