5 NBA Draft Questions for the New Orleans Pelicans
Only hours away from the 2017 NBA Draft, Wilton Jackson and I float some ideas as we anticipate the New Orleans Pelicans 40th and 52nd overall selections.
Name a first round talent who could realistically fall to the Pelicans in the second round of tonight’s draft:
Wilton Jackson (@WiltonReports):
After looking a numerous draft boards, one player that could drop from the first round to the 40th pick in the second round would be Frank Jackson, the freshman point guard coming from Duke. Jackson would be a great asset for the Pelicans in regards to perimeter scoring from the guard position. Jackson is quick off the dribble and shoots the ball well. His explosiveness, strength and ability to finish is exactly what New Orleans needs to pair with Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins.
Preston Ellis (@PrestonEllis) :
I really like Sindarius Thornwell’s tenacity. The Pelicans were at their best with Quincy Pondexter leading the defense two years ago. He brought the communication and enthusiasm this team has lacked.
The Pelicans are filled with nice, quiet guys. They need a physical defender who isn’t afraid to use his body to get stops when the Pelicans need it most. As Josh Riddell and Ryan Thomson wrote below, he is also an effective spot up shooter, averaging 39% from three on the season:
“Thornwell’s defensive versatility, spot up shooting ability and his on-court intangibles makes him an intriguing potential two-way prospect. Although his upside might be limited due to his age and relatively average athleticism, in the right situation he could become a key member of a rotation. He can fill coveted roles and has shown he is willing to accept them to help his team win, which should make him an attractive pick somewhere in the second round.” – Source: http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Sindarius-Thornwell-7178/ ©DraftExpress
Late last night the Pelicans announced the acquisition of the 52nd overall pick from the Washington Wizards in exchange for Tim Frazier. What prompted the move?
Wilton:
With Frazier going to DC the Pelicans can gain another asset, preferably a shooting guard or a two guard who can score on a proficient level. If the Pelicans don’t get a late first rounder in someone like Jackson from Duke, look for them take advantage of their 52nd pick in a player like PJ Dozier, Nigel Williams-Goss, Tyler Dorsey or Josh Hart. These are players that can actively contribute to the Pelicans’ team immediately.
Preston:
According to Scott Kushner, this move is not tied to any future player movement, and yet it smells like a salary dump. In order to take full advantage, the Pelicans will either package both picks for cash, or trade for future picks and thereby keep 2017’s books clean. Both second round picks will not make the Pelicans’ opening day roster. The Pelicans are working under the assumption Jrue Holiday bolts in free agency, and will need every dollar available to bring in a capable replacement.
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Is there anyone you hope the Pelicans “don’t” select?
Wilton:
As long as the Pelicans don’t select a subpar small forward.
The Pelicans have done this in the past and did not get the contribution they needed.
The Pelicans front office needs to stick with these main concepts throughout this evening’s draft:
Find perimeter scoring, or a point guard who can lead and score and manage both positions defensively.
Preston:
Nigel Williams-Goss. An unpopular opinion as many experts in New Orleans have him as a terrific fit. I just don’t believe his limited athleticism translates in the NBA. He lacks the first step explosiveness that draws defenders and opens the floor, struggles at the rim (51%), and lacks the size and foot speed to lock down quicker point guards making him a liability defensively. If he were a bit taller (6’3), I could imagine a Shaun Livingston type role for him, but at his size he can only be an effective fifth guard. The Pelicans will need to find a steal to lock down 2017 success and secure the future of their two stars.
Prediction: Who do the Pelicans select?
Wilton:
The Pelicans go with either Tyler Dorsey, Nigel Williams-Goss, Josh Hart or PJ Dozier with its 40th pick in the 2017 NBA Draft.
Preston:
I’m going to cheat a bit, but I think the Pelicans package one or both picks for Will Barton’s expiring contract. It just makes too much sense logistically as the Pelicans will use their Trade Exception that Barton falls under perfectly and will get the player they have coveted for over a year.
With the 52nd pick, the Pelicans select Alberto Abalde of Spain. The 22 year old Spanish small forward is the ideal draft and stash candidate, and could become one of the Pelicans first two way contracts next season.