Pre-Draft Outlook
The roster’s current glut of guards, forwards and wings could push New Orleans to shop the No. 14 pick. But, the Pelicans still need to add improved shooting, shot creation and rim protection to improve an already promising core. After all, Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum are proven commodities capable of keeping New Orleans in postseason contention for years to come. But Williamson’s injury history is becoming concerning as he hasn’t played in at least 30 games in three of the last four seasons. Williamson signed a five-year rookie max extension last July, making it doubtful New Orleans would try to move the potential franchise cornerstone this offseason.
The Way To Go
You won’t find many glaring weaknesses on New Orleans’ current roster and any new additions via the Draft would likely take on reserve roles. The Pelicans have shown a preference in recent drafts for lengthy perimeter players who are versatile, and Michigan’s Kobe Bufkin and Arkansas standouts Anthony Black and Nick Smith all appear to fit that mold. Gradey Dick out of Kansas would provide size and solid outside shooting, while the sturdy Jarace Walker could immediately bolster rim protection, as could Duke’s Dereck Lively II. If New Orleans holds onto the 14th pick, look for it to take a best-available-player approach as opposed to drafting based on need.
— Michael C. Wright
Here’s a quick look at who the New Orleans Pelicans have under contract, who is a free agent this summer and who they added in the 2022 NBA Draft.
Under Contract
G: Jose Alvarado
G: Dyson Daniels
G: Kira Lewis Jr.
G: CJ McCollum
G: Dereon Seabron
G/F: Garrett Temple
F: Brandon Ingram
F: E.J. Liddell
F: Trey Murphy III
F: Zion Williamson
F/C: Larry Nance Jr.
C: Jonas Valanciunas
Free Agents
G: Josh Richardson (unrestricted)
F: Herbert Jones (team option)
F: Naji Marshall (team option)
C/F: Jaxson Hayes (restricted)
C/F: Willy Hernangomez (team option)
> 2023 Free Agent Tracker
Last Year’s Draft
2022: Dyson Daniels (8), EJ Liddell (41), Karlo Matkovic (52)
* = acquired via trade
** = traded in draft-night deal
*** = traded in offseason deal