Forget Gordon, Vucevic should be the New Orleans Pelicans’ trade target

New Orleans Pelicans: Is Nikola Vucevic a fit?

If I could pick one center to pair with Zion Williamson, then it might be Vucevic, who has a skillset that would fit in perfectly with the Pels’ young superstar.

Even though Vucevic is a 6-foot-11 bruiser who can defend the post and grab rebounds, he is actually more of a stretch-five on the other end, as he shoots more than 40 percent from long range on 6.6 attempts per game, making him one of the best 3-point shooters in the league at any position.

The Pels desperately need more shooting, as they lack guys who can spread the floor for Zion and Brandon Ingram to go to work.

The Pels would almost certainly have to trade Adams to make the money work, but Vucevic would be a big upgrade on both ends, as he can step out and defend perimeter players and is much more of a threat on offense.

This might also prevent the Pels from signing Lonzo Ball, but with trade rumors swirling, the writing might already be on the wall for that one anyway.

Zion, Ingram, and Vucevic would give the Pels a talented and versatile “Big 3” to build around and Vucevic’s defense and 3-point shooting would complement them well.

This trade would shake the foundations of the Western Conference and give the Pelicans an exciting trio to build around.

The trade deadline might end up being a dud, but if not, let’s hope the Pelicans go for a blockbuster to bring in an ideal big.