3 Former New Orleans Pelicans to Consider Reuniting with in Free Agency

A reunion with Trevor Ariza gives the New Orleans Pelicans the veteran defensive wing they’re missing

Trevor Ariza- (2010-2012 in New Orleans)

When I began searching for former Pelicans players that might be available, the first name that stood out to me was Trevor Ariza. Though he only played two seasons in New Orleans, he made a big impact playing the role of a defensive forward for those late Chris Paul-era teams.

That’s Trevor Ariza’s calling card, he’s a journeyman player who is skilled defensively and reliable with his jumper. It’s a role he’s filled for many teams over the years winning a title with the Los Angeles Lakers as their bench wing.

At 35 years old nearing the end of his career, returning to New Orleans on a 1-year contract makes all the sense in the world. The New Orleans Pelicans need a wing in Ariza’s mold who won’t mind playing behind Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson. Adding Trevor Ariza to the New Orleans Pelicans gives those players a mentor as well as a forward who will be physical and focus on the defensive end, helping one of the Pelicans’ biggest weaknesses.

The other day I wrote about how important shooting will be in 2021 with the possibility of a second bubble occurring, and adding Ariza’s reliable 36 percent stroke from beyond the arc is a no-brainer for that need.

A defensive glue guy on the wing and a solid 3 point shooter, sign me up for a second go-around with Trevor Ariza. On the subject of those 2000s teams, I’d take the opposing frontcourt player who departed right before Ariza’s arrival too.