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Pelicans second-round pickup Frank Jackson excited to play with ‘two of the best bigs in the league’

When New Orleans pulled off a trade Wednesday to land an additional second-round pick, there was immediate speculation that the Pelicans would use the extra draft choice to move up into the first round of Thursday’s draft. They ultimately came very close to doing so, parlaying their other second-round choice to acquire the 31st overall pick, the initial selection of Round 2.

Duke guard Frank Jackson was the beneficiary of New Orleans’ wheeling and dealing, officially being drafted by the Charlotte Hornets at No. 31, but winding up as a member of the Pelicans. Jackson, who attended the draft at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, donned a teal hat on stage, before being informed that he was going to the Crescent City.

“That could be a great opportunity for Frank Jackson,” ESPN broadcaster Rece Davis said of Jackson becoming teammates with the All-Star duo of Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins.

“I mean, those are two of the best bigs in the league,” Jackson said in a post-pick interview. “It’s going to teach me a lot. It’s going to allow me to play with those guys and just learn. I’m looking forward to it.”

Jackson, who played just his freshman season at Duke, is one of the youngest players in the draft, not turning 20 until next May. He averaged 10.9 points and 2.5 rebounds with the Blue Devils in 2016-17, in about 25 minutes per game.

“I’m super excited to be in this situation,” Jackson said. “You know, to be a part of New Orleans and the organization means the world to me. I’m part of the NBA. People can expect me to be a fierce competitor and someone who can lead a team and get out and defend. Just play my game. I’m just super excited to be here and grateful for this opportunity.”