Forget Gordon, Vucevic should be the New Orleans Pelicans’ trade target
The New Orleans Pelicans have been involved in a number of trade rumors as the trade deadline approaches.
The Pelicans have reportedly shown interest in Aaron Gordon of the Orlando Magic, which makes some sense given that the Magic are near the bottom of the Eastern Conference and may want a fresh start.
But is Aaron Gordon even a fit? Even though his shooting has improved, he is injured and there are some questions about whether he and Zion Williamson would be a good match given that their games have some similarities.
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Gordon may be worth taking a flyer on if the price is right, but the player from the Magic that the Pelicans should really pursue is Nikola Vucevic.
The Magic center is having a breakout season and has evolved into one of the best big men in the modern game, as he can score and defend at all three levels, is a dominant rebounder and an improving passer.
There is an argument that he is the second-best center in the league this season since he is averaging 24.7 points, 11.8 rebounds, 3.9 assists and a steal for the Magic.
But his season has not translated into wins and the tanking Magic may decide it is time to start with a clean slate. Could there be interest in a trade with the New Orleans Pelicans?
New Orleans Pelicans: Could the Pels make a splashy trade for Vucevic?
The Pelicans are stuck between trying to fight for the play-in game and looking at their lottery odds, as they have been one of the most inconsistent teams in the NBA this season.
Their offense has been great, but their defense is still horrible and it is clear they need more size, especially off the bench.
I’ve written about how this trade deadline could be a quiet one for the Pels, but if they do make a move, going for a blockbuster trade for Nikola Vucevic would be a smart one.
Here’s what it might look like.