New Orleans Pelicans: 3 Reasons to re-sign Lonzo Ball

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - FEBRUARY 17: Lonzo Ball #2 of the New Orleans Pelicans dribbles the ball down court during the third quarter of an NBA game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Smoothie King Center on February 17, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana. 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 Sean Gardner/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - FEBRUARY 17: Lonzo Ball #2 of the New Orleans Pelicans dribbles the ball down court during the third quarter of an NBA game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Smoothie King Center on February 17, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana. 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 Sean Gardner/Getty Images)
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New Orleans Pelicans, Lonzo Ball
(Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)

New Orleans Pelicans: Lonzo Ball’s size gives the Pels an advantage

The final reason the New Orleans Pelicans need to retain Lonzo Ball is because of his size. At 6-foot-6 he can shoot over smaller players, post-up smaller defenders, and see the floor.

One aspect of the UCLA products game that is overlooked is his defense. Despite an overall lackluster defense under Stan Van Gundy, the team had excellent stretches on the defensive end, usually involving Lonzo Ball.

When Ball is locked in he uses his length to help disrupt other guards and he blocks the passing lanes well.

With LB playing at the one he forces opponents to change their lineup and defensive matchups. As he continues to develop his shot he will put more pressure on defenses.

There is a lot of upside for Ball and the Pelicans as a whole, but the next step is finding their next head coach to help unlock their potential.