Sat Dec 06 22:30:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the text:
Pelicans Find Unexpected Gem in Saddiq Bey Amidst Disappointing Season
New Orleans, LA – In a season largely defined by struggles and a disappointing 3-18 start, the New Orleans Pelicans have found a bright spot in the unexpected emergence of forward Saddiq Bey. Acquired in a trade that sent CJ McCollum to another team, Bey has exceeded expectations, providing consistent and impactful play on both ends of the court.
Bey’s recent performance, including his fourth double-double in five games against the Lakers (22 points and 11 rebounds), highlights his value to the team. He’s proven to be a versatile player, effectively filling in as a starter when needed and consistently being the first man off the bench when the team is at full strength. In his 12 starts, Bey is averaging an impressive 16.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.0 assists while shooting a scorching 42.7% from three-point range.
What makes Bey’s performance even more remarkable is that he missed the entire 2024-25 season with a torn ACL. His strong return showcases his dedication and resilience.
The trade that brought Bey to New Orleans was initially met with criticism, particularly due to the additional salary the Pelicans took on. However, with Bey’s impressive performance and the promising potential of rookie Micah Peavy (acquired in the same trade), the move is now being viewed in a more favorable light.
Bey is under contract for one more season at a bargain price of $6.4 million. This makes him an extremely valuable asset for the Pelicans. While the team could retain him as a key rotation player, his affordable contract and valuable skillset are likely to attract significant interest from contending teams as the trade deadline approaches. The Pelicans may find themselves in a position to acquire valuable draft capital or young talent in exchange for Bey, making him a valuable trade asset for a team looking to rebuild.
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