Zion Williamson wants a starting trio in the NBA’s rising star game

It’s that time of the season. No, he’s not whispering trade rumors. Zion Williamson’s New Orleans Pelicans are publicly stunned for a group of his youngest teammates, firmly believing that the trio of rookies deserves NBA Rising Star honors. of course Derrick Queen and Jeremiah Fears gave fans a lot of hope for the future. Everyone knows they’re going to be invited to a big party in Los Angeles. Williamson also insists that two-way forward Micah Peavy also belongs in the conversation.

Derrick Quinn competes with Nikola Jokic. Jeremiah Fears chases Chris Paul’s records. However, Peavey, a 6-foot-7 forward from TCU, took a different route. As a second-round pick, he appeared in 27 games, averaging 4.6 points, 2.1 rebounds and 1.1 assists on 39.1% shooting. While modest at first glance, there are several first-round picks who want a chance to put up those modest numbers.

So Williamson hit the campaign trailgiving a speech before the Pelicans hosted the Denver Nuggets.

“Personally, I feel like all three of them should be there,” boasted Williamson. “When (Peavy) gets on the court, he definitely impacts his minutes. Obviously more for the public, I think we all know DK and Fears are locked in. But I think all three should be there.”

Williamson also highlighted the growth of the three this season.

“(Fears and Queen) have made a lot of improvements,” the two-time All-Star noted. “There are times when you can tell they’re still adjusting to college, but they’ve made progress in knowing when to slow down. They know what to go in, when to go and when not to. They’re young; they’ve got time, but they’ve definitely made a lot of improvements.”

The pace and complexity of NBA offenses present challenges that college stars must overcome. Understanding when to pick up the pace versus when to execute in the half-court, recognizing defensive rotations and managing the physical demands of an 82-game season all require periods of adjustment. Williamson’s observations suggest that Queen and Fears are progressing through this transition more quickly than some rookies.

For Peavey, the path was different. Second-round picks rarely get the same opportunities or patience that lottery selections are afforded. Still, the Pelicans have found ways to capitalize on his strengths, particularly his defensive intensity and willingness to embrace a playmaker’s mentality.

Williamson’s commitment to Peavey reflects both the player’s contributions and the culture New Orleans has fostered. The Pelicans have emphasized development and opportunity for young players, creating an environment where second-round picks can prove their worth. It worked for Herb Jones, Jose Alvarado and Naji Marshall. Maybe Peavy is next. It’s up to the NBA to recognize the work.