New Orleans Pelicans: “Pass or Pursue” on 3 NBA draft trade-up prospects
By Nick Alvarez
New Orleans Pelicans Potential Trade-Up Prospect #2- Anthony Edwards
Next on the list is Anthony Edwards. Edwards is a player that a lot of people are considering to be the 1st overall pick in the draft, but depending on potential trades being made he might fall to a spot where the Pelicans could trade up to get him.
As a prospect, Edwards is polarizing, but I personally believe in him. He’s a legit 6’5″, with a thick frame to match, and he knows how to do the most valuable thing an NBA player can score. I know people question his shot selection, and attitude but I think with a strong coaching staff he could be the best player in this draft.
Unfortunately, his fit on the New Orleans Pelicans is questionable. He’s a scorer who wants the ball in his hands, how would that fit with Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, and Zion Williamson? I’m not sure he could play well off-the-ball.
Then with some of his attitude concerns, it’s fair to question whether working with Stan Van Gundy would be beneficial or toxic because we don’t how he’ll respond to Van Gundy’s disciplinary coaching.
Related Story. Stan Van Gundy's player development is Boom or Bust. light
There’s no getting past Edward’s talent though, and a lot of front offices believe in drafting talent while figuring out the fit later. Is that David Griffin’s approach though? I don’t think so, I think Griffin is committed to building a cohesive team, and if that’s the case a 3-and-D player would probably be better at Edward’s position.