New Orleans Pelicans: Why Lonzo Ball should be on the trade block

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Assessing why it might be in the New Orleans Pelicans best-interest to move Lonzo Ball at the NBA Trade Deadline

Something’s not working for the New Orleans Pelicans this season. At 4-4, the team is in danger of having their solid start turn into a disappointing one. The question is, why?

The answer isn’t quite that hard to figure out. The New Orleans Pelicans are struggling on offense. It’s that simple, and it doesn’t matter how you cut it. This team can’t shoot consistently from the outside, they lack the aggression to attack the interior, and their rotation is inept too.

That means something needs to change for these New Orleans Pelicans as they look to make the playoffs. I think David Griffin knows this too, given his aggression in this past offseason, so I think that means Lonzo Ball could end up on the trading block.

What? Why Lonzo? He’s been playing so consistent to start the season. Don’t worry, I know how you feel, but don’t quick away just yet, here are the reasons why.

TAMPA, FLORIDA – DECEMBER 23: Lonzo Ball #2 of the New Orleans Pelicans shoots from beyond the three point line during the second half against the Toronto Raptors at Amalie Arena on December 23, 2020 in Tampa, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) /

#1 – Lonzo Ball has value at a position of depth for the New Orleans Pelicans

Let’s start with the simple part first. When looking at the New Orleans Pelicans, it’s clear that their roster has depth at the guard position.

In addition to having Ball on the roster, the Pelicans have Eric Bledsoe, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and the recently drafted Kira Lewis Jr. at the guard position. And while the Ball-Bledsoe backcourt hasn’t been bad for the Pelicans, they could easily move Bledsoe to the starting point and allow J.J. Reddick or Josh Hart to step into the starting line-up.

That’s depth right there, and a smart team deals from a position of depth to acquire players at areas of weakness. Considering Lonzo Ball’s age and draft status, he likely has the value for the Pelicans to flip him for a player that significantly improves an area of weakness.

I’m thinking that moving Lonzo Ball could net the team a wing, or a big man, maybe even a shooter. These are players that the Pelicans lack to make their offense competitive and should want to acquire. Using Lonzo Ball to do that means the Pelicans can actually get a proven player at one of those positions rather than a flier.

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