Pre-Draft Outlook
Eyeing the anticipated future of the Western Conference on the heels of New Orleans’ first-round exit from the playoffs, Pelicans executive vice president of basketball operations David Griffin proclaimed “you will see a real sense of urgency” for radical improvement. The franchise has seen enough of Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum on the floor together to decide how to create a future that might not include all three. The most talented player on the roster, Williamson embarks on his most important offseason to date while Ingram has only one year left on his deal, making him a candidate for a potential trade.
The Way To Go
Four years remain on Williamson’s contract, which puts New Orleans on the clock to build around its franchise player as quickly as possible. Adding a frontcourt running mate makes the most sense. But the Pelicans might also look to bring aboard a bona fide point guard to put an end to their current practice of running the position by committee. The Pels have tried three centers alongside Williamson so far in current starter Jonas Valanciunas, Steven Adams and Derrick Favors. New Orleans is looking for mobility at that position, and Baylor’s Yves Missi could address the need although he’s considered at this point to be a project.
— Michael C. Wright
Here’s a quick look at New Orleans’ current roster entering the Draft:
Under Contract
G: Dyson Daniels
G: Jordan Hawkins
G: CJ McCollum
G: Dereon Seabron
F: Malcolm Hill
F: Brandon Ingram
F: Herbert Jones
F: E.J. Liddell
F: Trey Murphy III
F: Matt Ryan
F: Zion Williamson
F/C: Larry Nance Jr.
Free Agents
G: Jose Alvarado
F: Naji Marshall
F: Jeremiah Robinson-Earl
F/C: Cody Zeller
C: Jonas Valanciunas
> 2024 Free Agent Tracker