Pelicans Exercise Options on Fears, Queen, and Missi for 2027/28 Season
The New Orleans Pelicans have opted to exercise their team options for the 2027/28 season on players Jeremiah Fears, Derik Queen, and Yves Missi, as reported by Michael Scotto of HoopsHype. Fears, the seventh overall pick in the 2025 draft, is expected to play a key role as the team's sixth man after averaging 14.3 points and 3.4 assists last season.
Derik Queen, selected in a controversial trade during the 2025 draft, showed promise in his rookie year with averages of 11.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 3.7 assists. Meanwhile, Yves Missi, despite a reduced role last season, remains a potential starter at center, which influenced the decision to retain his contract option. In contrast, the team has declined the option for AJ Johnson, making him an unrestricted free agent after this season.
Johnson, who was part of a recent trade from the Grizzlies, struggled to find his footing in the league, averaging 3.3 points and 1.1 rebounds in limited playing time. His declined option means that his next team will not be able to offer him a starting salary exceeding the value of that option.
