New Orleans Pelicans: Best Draft Prospects In the Virtual Combine

Another Blue Devil who can be the back-up point guard answer and an elite perimeter defender

Tre Jones / Guard / Duke

Finally, we’ve reached the favorite. The prospect who recently sounded enthusiastic about the New Orleans Pelicans and their “Duke South” moniker, Tre Jones.

In case you missed it, here’s what Tre Jones said about the Pelicans and their Duke connection the other night:

"“It would be extremely fun to be able to connect with those guys, to be able to play on the same team as them, and hopefully win games with those guys. Having Trajan Langdon in the front office would be amazing. It would be a ‘(Duke) Brotherhood connect’ down there. Being able to play with those type of guys would be amazing. It would be a good connection, for sure.” -Tre Jones via NBA.com"

Some people will cringe hearing this comment (especially Duke haters) but I embrace it. I like the idea of adding Tre Jones to this later in the draft. Watching Tre Jones’ tape I believe he’s possibly the Pelicans back-up point guard answer with more.

Jones is all about facilitation and defense. He’s still working on his 3 point shot and he has trouble attacking the rim but his passing and defensive IQ are fully matured. I can easily picture Jones joining the Pelicans and embracing a Marcus Smart role.

Having a guy who’s willing to come in and scrap diving for loose balls and forcing turnovers is excellent. Plus listening to Jones makes it clear that he understands the Pelicans have a hierarchy in place. I’m sure Jones wouldn’t mind tossing easy lobs to Zion Williamson again.