If Julius Randle opts out, should the Pelicans bring him back?

So what’s an ideal contract for Randle?

Although there’s still a chance he opts in and tests free agency next offseason when there are lesser names available, the opposite can still occur. If that’s the case, Randle could command a hefty sum. But how much money would be too much?

According to spotrac.com, Randle is currently the 20th highest paid power forward in the league, with players such as Ryan Anderson, John Henson, Jon Leuer, and Dwight Powell all making more money than the 24-year-old. That is subject to change if Randle were to opt out, and given what his stats were last year, it’s quite feasible that his contract could ballpark in the $15-20 million per season range.

It’s also noteworthy to mention that with the Anthony Davis trade still in the air, the roster could drastically change. Young talent could potentially flood the roster on rookie contracts, which puts the team in a spot where they could wait and pursue the next big name in free agency. Also, what if the team can’t shed Solomon Hill’s contract? He’s on the books for $12.7 million in 2019-2020.

If David Griffin is genuine in his comments surrounding Jrue Holiday— and making him the face of the rebuild—could the Pels afford to take on another significant contract? What if the New York Knicks go all in and attempt a trade with the Pelicans for AD? That could potentially mean Zion Williamson comes to the Big Easy, and his game does not necessarily compliment the likes of Randle’s. There are a lot of different situations here when considering the best plan for the Pelicans.

Ultimately, if the price is right and the term is reasonable, there is a place for Julius Randle on the New Orleans Pelicans. Yet depending on the package received for Anthony Davis, the opposite also applies. Would you like to see him return on the roster? Let us know in the comments.