The New Orleans Pelicans could use one of their four picks on a center in the NBA Draft.
The New Orleans Pelicans have a lot of options when it comes to the NBA Draft, but they also have a lot of needs.
The Pels could use depth at both forward positions, a center and a backup point guard, which won’t be easy with limited money to spend in free agency.
One option is to trade Jrue Holiday and it has been reported that the New Orleans Pelicans are trying to do just that. There are some intriguing rumors out there, with teams like the Clippers, Nuggets and Nets seemingly the most interested.
If the Pelicans are unable to move one of their veteran contracts, then they will need to find impact talent in the NBA Draft, which will be trickier than ever given the obvious challenges of drafting during a pandemic.
The Pelicans will definitely need a center if Derrick Favors leaves but it is probably the weakest position in the draft, with few guys who really fit what the Pelicans need.
Here are the three best centers for the New Orleans Pelicans, one who will be a lottery pick and two who might fall to the second round, where the Pels would be more comfortable taking a center.
James Wiseman
Wiseman is not likely to be available at 13, so the Pelicans would have to trade up to get him. We’ve talked about some trades that could net the second pick, and if the Pels were to be aggressive, it might be for Wiseman.
Wiseman is a legit 7-footer with a big wingspan who should be an elite rim protector in the NBA. The Pelicans were 28th in the NBA in points allowed in the paint, so they need a guy who can be disruptive around the rim.
Wiseman came into the season as the consensus #1 prospect but only played three games at Memphis, which definitely hurt his stock. Out of sight out of mind, I guess.
But Wiseman is still likely the best player in this draft, a guy who should be a double-double machine in the NBA while blocking a few shots per game.
If he ever develops a jumper then Wiseman could be a star. Either way his defense would be perfect next to Zion Williamson, so if the Pelicans can find a way to move up and get him, they should consider it.