Pelicans' Yves Missi Vows to Improve Strength and Shooting in Offseason

The young center struggled with consistency in his second NBA season, but is focused on getting stronger and developing a midrange jumper.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 5:36pm

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a basketball player in motion, with their limbs and the ball broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of deep blues, greens, and oranges, conveying the intensity and energy of the sport.A cubist interpretation of Pelicans center Yves Missi's drive to the basket, highlighting his raw athleticism and the need to refine his offensive game.New Orleans Today

New Orleans Pelicans center Yves Missi had a disappointing sophomore campaign, with his numbers dropping across the board from his promising rookie season. Missi says his main focus this offseason will be improving his core strength and developing a more consistent midrange jump shot to complement his defensive presence and rebounding ability.

Why it matters

The Pelicans are counting on Missi to take a big step forward in his third NBA season, as the team looks to build around young stars Zion Williamson and Derik Queen. Missi's development as a two-way threat in the paint will be crucial to the Pelicans' hopes of returning to the playoffs.

The details

Missi's numbers fell from 9.1 points and 8.2 rebounds per game in his rookie year to just 5.7 points and 5.8 rebounds this past season. The Cameroonian center struggled with his free throw shooting, finishing ability around the basket, and rebounding consistency. Missi acknowledged that improving his core strength will be a major focus, saying 'Free throws, finishing, and rebounding is a big part of it as well... Gonna be in the weight room for sure.'

  • The 2025-2026 NBA season just concluded for the Pelicans.
  • Missi conducted his end-of-season interview on Monday.

The players

Yves Missi

A second-year center for the New Orleans Pelicans who was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in his debut season, but struggled with consistency in his sophomore campaign.

Zion Williamson

The Pelicans' star forward, who played in 62 games this past season after being limited to just 30 games in Missi's rookie year.

Derik Queen

A rookie forward who emerged as a key contributor for the Pelicans this past season.

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What they’re saying

“Free throws, finishing and rebounding is a big part of it as well... Gonna be in the weight room for sure”

— Yves Missi, Pelicans Center

What’s next

The Pelicans will have to decide on the team options for Missi's contract over the next two seasons, with Year 3 being a crucial year in determining his long-term future in New Orleans.

The takeaway

Missi's development as a two-way threat in the paint will be essential for the Pelicans as they look to build around their young core of Williamson and Queen. If he can improve his strength, finishing ability, and add a consistent midrange jumper, Missi could solidify himself as a key piece of the Pelicans' future.