New Orleans Pelicans: 3 trade targets as Bulls turn over front office

As we’ve suggested in the past, Lauri Markkaen makes a ton of sense for the New Orleans Pelicans

Struggling through injuries and inconsistency through three seasons in the NBA, Lauri Markkanen still has a ton of upside in this league and a team like the Pelicans could be a great fit for his maximization in the future.

Markkanen numbers were down this season, as he averaged 14.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, and shot 34.4% from three on 6.3 three-point shot attempts per game, shooting 42.5% on 11.8 attempts.

His points, rebounds, three-point percentage, field-goal percentage, and field goal attempts were the lowest of his three-year career.

A sloppy handler but a creative off-the-ball creator, Markkanen was marginalized in head coach Jim Boylen’s offensive system.

When healthy, Markkanen spent a lot of time standing around the three-point line as opposed to cruising around the court to find good, open shots.

Both of our co-experts have looked at Markkanen as a trade target in the past six months, as the fit next to Zion Williamson is just so tantalizing. I was starting to think about this potential swap as early as the NBA Trade Deadline, as Markkanen looked lost on Boylen island.

Rumored to want out of Chicago mostly due to his displeasure in playing for Boylen, Markkanen could shift his position quickly if Karnisovas brings in a promising new coach, someone like Kenny Atkinson or Adrian Griffin.

Still an exciting talent, the Pelicans might have to use one or more of their more premium assets in a potential swap for Markkanen, likely including some of their future, unprotected, first-round picks, especially if they don’t want to include Nickeil Alexander-Walker in any swap.