With the NBA Finals officially over, next on the schedule will be the 2021 NBA Draft. The New Orleans Pelicans had a modest year, narrowly missing out on a playoff spot in the tough Western Conference. They also hired new head coach Willie Green to take over the team. However, Green will have a lot of thinking to do this offseason.
The following is a complete look at the New Orleans Pelicans needs, as we approach the 2021 NBA Draft and Free Agency.
New Orleans Pelicans Needs Heading Into the Offseason
New Orleans Pelicans Free Agents
- James Johnson, PF
- Lonzo Ball, PG
- Josh Hart, SG/SF
- Willy Hernangomez, C
- Didi Louzada, SF (Team-Option)
- James Nunnallly, SF
Lonzo Ball should be the priority number one in New Orleans. However, he is a restricted free agent, so the Pelicans will have to match any offer thrown at him. Some teams will throw a lot of money his way, but I’d say the Pelicans have a pretty good chance at bringing him back. As for Willy Hernangomez, he will probably sign elsewhere, as his role could be filled for the league-minimum.
Josh Hart is and interesting case, as he might get some lucrative offers on the open market. If it comes down to Hart and Ball, the Pels will go with Lonzo.
New Orleans Pelicans 2021 Draft Picks
- First Round, 10th Overall
- Second Round, 35th Overall
- Second Round, 38th Overall
- Second Round, 43rd Overall
- Second Round, 52nd Overall
New Orleans Pelicans Draft Targets
Moses Moody
Moses Moody would fit right in with the Pelicans starting unit. He’s one of the youngest players in the 2021 NBA Draft, and he can shoot with the best of them. He’s 6-6, but has a seven-foot wingspan, so he’s versatile on defense. He’s also gradually coming along as a primary ball-handler. However, right now, he’s more comfortable moving off-ball. He is the best three-and-D player in this draft, as his floor might just be Mikal Bridges.
Corey Kispert
Corey Kispert is probably the best pure catch-and-shoot player in this draft. He excelled at Gonzaga alongside Jalen Suggs. He was very diligent off the ball and always knew where and when to get to his spots. Kispert won’t be a lock-down perimeter defender, but he can hold his own. The only real knock on Kispert is his age. He’s one of the older players in the NBA Draft, but that shouldn’t shy most teams away. Kispert is lethal from behind the arc.
Charles Bassey
Chales Bassey is a guy who would be a great pick for the Pelicans in the second round. During his three years at Western Kentucky, he dominated his opponents. He’s a 6-110 big man with a knack for rebounding and protecting the rim. However, he does need to polish his post and mid-post game. Still, he’s a great finisher and is very long. With so many picks late in this draft, the Pelicans would be wise to take a flyer on Bassey.
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