Early NBA days: How is Dyson Daniels looking in New Orleans so far?

Daniels looks to build on a successful preseason by helping the New Orleans Pelicans reach the NBA playoffs.

Dyson Daniels was Australia’s lone representative in the 2022 NBA draft lottery, and nearly for the draft as a whole, until Luke Travers was picked late in the second round. The Bendigo native earned a ticket to New Orleans as the eighth overall pick, joining credentialed NBA All-Stars like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. Although the Pelicans were somewhat competitive last season, finishing ninth in the West, Daniels projected as a strong candidate to earn playing time right off the bat. His competition at the point guard spot included Devonte Graham and Jose Alvarado - two guys who showed flashes the season prior, but never made the position their own.

Daniels’ 2022 Summer League was curtailed after just eight minutes of playing time. He suffered a right ankle sprain, and was cautiously rested. Once the preseason came around however, the Aussie made himself known.

kelly🦘👑 @kuroemonba

Dyson Daniels @DysonDaniels showed his scary defensive ability 😈 #Pelicans

NBA Australia @NBA_AU

🇦🇺 @DysonDaniels shines for the @PelicansNBA in their win over the Mavs. #Pelicans 📊 11 PTS | 3 REB | 2 AST | 3 STL | 1 BLK https://t.co/5VvPdJNgm9

In New Orleans’ 129-125 win over Chicago, Daniels logged 15 points, five rebounds, three steals and two blocks in just 23 minutes of play. While the rising star made just one of six from beyond the arc in his preseason debut, that one make was a fourth quarter dagger. With New Orleans leading 120-117 late in the fourth quarter, Daniels effectively iced the game with a stepback three (1:37 in the video below). He also enjoyed greater success inside the arc, making 4/9 two-point attempts. The guard is becoming known for his creative shotmaking, and this was on display against Chicago, with two of those five field goals being close range floaters. Daniels also showed off his versatility with a left hand layup in transition, allowing him to bypass defenders who covered his right hand drive (0:20 below).

Elle ✌🏼❤️&🏀 @GiddeysBetter

1:46 of Dyson Daniels “You just love the fact that he doesn’t give up on it”.

It’s also fairly well known that Daniels’ offensive game is a work in progress, but the Victorian more than makes up for it by contributing in numerous ways.