New Orleans Pelicans NBA Draft: 3 Players Who Are Ready to Play Now

New Orleans Pelicans Draft Prospect: Paul Reed

Paul Reed is the youngest on this list at only 21-years-old, but he played for three seasons at DePaul.

He got better every year, averaging 15.1 points, 10.7, 2.6 blocks and 1.9 steals per game in his final season.

Reed profiles as a guy who could be a versatile defender in the NBA, as he is 6-foot-9, has quick hands, great instincts and a high motor.

He is exactly the type of player the New Orleans Pelicans need, as he is a big wing who can defend multiple spots, won’t need the ball much and will bring energy and intensity off the bench.

Reed is expected to be drafted in the late first round or early second, so the Pelicans might have to package their three second round picks to get him, but if there is an opportunity, they should consider it.

Reed will enter the NBA as one of the prospects most ready to contribute, as he is already a good defender and rebounder and would not be asked to do much more.

I really like Reed as a defense and energy guy and would love to see the Pelicans be aggressive to get him if he is still there when they pick in round two.

Reed may not be worth the 13th pick, but he might be worth all three of the second round picks the Pels own if they could move up to get him.

The Pelicans need more production out of their draft picks next season, which may mean taking a chance on an older prospect with a lower ceiling.

These three guys should be able to contribute early on and may be available for the Pelicans in the second round.