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New Orleans Should Pay Close Attention To Grayson Allen

By Mark Nilon

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 17: Grayson Allen #23 speaks with reporters during Day One of the NBA Draft Combine at Quest MultiSport Complex on May 17, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - MAY 17: Grayson Allen #23 speaks with reporters during Day One of the NBA Draft Combine at Quest MultiSport Complex on May 17, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /
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With the NBA combine now in the books, teams can start to plan accordingly for this years upcoming draft. Though they may not have a first round selection, the Pelicans too should be discussing their options as to whom they could potentially nab with their 51st overall pick. This years draft is being hailed as very deep and saturated with talent, so New Orleans may in fact be able to select someone who could immediately produce. As for who could potentially fit-the-bill for NOLA at this pick, Grayson Allen could be an intruging option to consider.

Through four-years, Grayson Allen has reached great heights as one of Duke’s star players. The 6-5 combo guard has scored over 1,900 points wearing blue and white, was named an All-ACC player twice and helped lead his team to a national championship back in 2015. At last weeks draft combine, the 22-year-old continued to shine in front of the masses.

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During the event, Allen put up miraculous numbers which, like most of his collegiate career, had his name trending among the basketball world. According to multiple reports, Allen posted a 0.31-second lane-agility drill. With this time, it is one of the fastest recorded in combine history. He also managed to record both second this year in shuttle time (3.4 seconds) and sixth in verticle leap (40.5 inches). These performances have now left zero doubt about Allen’s athleticism.

For his career, Allen holds averages of 14.1 PPG, 3.0 APG and 1.0 SPG while shooting 43% from the feild and 38% from downtown. Not only is he an impressive shooter, but Allen has shown that he has no problem taking things to the rack when need be. His versitility as a scorer could come in handy for a team looking to strengthen their bench production. And, the way they currently stand, New Orleans needs exactly this.

Last season, NOLA’s bench only produced an average of 27.9 PPG, ranking them 26th in the entire league. Sure they may be able to help bolster their depth through free-agency, but if Allen is available at 51, the Pelicans should strongly consider using their pick on him. His scoring prowess, athleticism and competitivness would be very welcomed in New Orleans.

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Currently, Allen is projected as a mid to late second round pick. Should the Pelicans begin to take a closer look at the 22-year-old combo guard? How would you feel if NOLA was able to select him 51st overall? Leave you thoughts in the comment section below!