New Orleans Pelicans: 3 and D role players to target at the deadline
By Nick Alvarez
A reunion with Trevor Ariza could help the New Orleans Pelicans on both ends of the floor
Trade Candidate #2: Trevor Ariza
The ageless wonder Trevor Ariza, at 35 years-old, Ariza is still kicking playing solid defense, and shooting well from beyond the arc. If the Pelicans are looking to add a veteran to their bench, he might be worth considering.
Ariza, who’s currently in Oklahoma City has left the Thunder for “personal reasons”, which sounds like a clear indication that he wants to play for a team committed to an actual cause rather than one that’s tanking.
If that’s the case, Ariza would fit perfectly on this Pelicans’ bench and could be the ideal mentor for guys like Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and even Brandon Ingram. Even at 35, I also think Ariza could still give the Pelicans 15-20 minutes a night of reliable play.
Given his age and current status with the Thunder, a simple Redick for Ariza swap should get the job for the Pelicans. If Sam Presti insists on some draft compensation, a second-round pick far in the future should get the job done. Of course, the Pelicans could also wait this one out as Ariza is a likely buyout-candidate this year.
Either way, I’d be happy to see Trevor Ariza return to the New Orleans area for a playoff push.