New Orleans Pelicans Draft Prospect Isaac Okoro: “My defense can help any team”

How Isaac Okoro Fits on the New Orleans Pelicans

Okoro has been mocked everywhere from the top-ten to the back of the lottery, so it’s possible he won’t be available when the Pelicans pick, especially if they end up making the playoffs.

If the Pelicans do stay in the lottery, Okoro will be right around their range and might be there for the taking.

The Pelicans had a difficult time stopping big wings this season. They are undersized just about everywhere, with the Slenderman, Brandon Ingram as their only real wing.

Both Kenrich Williams and Darius Miller were hurt most of the year and will likely leave in free agency ,so the Pelicans need to get bigger and stronger on the wing to be able to slow down guys like LeBron James and Kawhi Leonard.

Okoro would get immediate minutes in the second unit, where he could fit nicely alongside Josh Hart, Nicolo Melli and J.J. Redick.

Okoro’s defensive versatility makes him a fit with just about anyone, as he could be part of a small-ball lineup with Zion Williamson at the five, or part of bigger lineups where he defends shooting guards.

There are very few wings in free agency that have Okoro’s projected defensive versatility and he is the right age to grow with the New Orleans Pelicans’ talented core.

A defensive and versatile wing with size is one of the Pelicans’ biggest needs and Okoro could fill it. They have to decide if they see enough in his offense, but there is a lot to like about a guy who can potentially guard four positions.

Okoro also has the right mindset, as he knows his defense is what will make him successful at the next level. He won’t come into the league looking to dominate the ball, which is important as the Pelicans already have several ball-dominant offensive players.

Okoro will be a complementary offensive player who will not demand the ball, will take on the challenge of defending the other team’s best players and will in general do the dirty work.

If the New Orleans Pelicans decide to use the draft to improve their defense, Okoro might be the best choice.