New Orleans Pelicans: Devonte’ Graham is in the ideal situation to shine

Getting Devonte’ Graham in a sign-and-trade was a smart move for the New Orleans Pelicans.

With most of the point guards taken off of the market so quickly, the Pelicans had to make some type of move unless they wanted to be left with Kira Lewis (who isn’t ready for the big stage just yet) or Nickeil Alexander-Walker (who is considered more of a two-guard).

The signing of Graham cost the Pelicans half of what it would have to keep Lonzo Ball. A contract of $47 million dollars over four years for a player who had a breakout sophomore season averaging 18.2 PPG and 7.5 APG is a steal. Even last season he still played extremely well while taking on a reduced role with the addition of LaMelo Ball.

Devonte’ Graham is now in a system where he can truly flourish.

So while Devonte’ may have not been the New Orleans Pelicans first choice, he will prove to become a great player and fit with this team.

Devonte’ Graham has the chance to be something special for the New Orleans Pelicans

In the past two seasons, Devonte’ Graham has proven to the league that he is more than a second-round pick or an undersized guard. He’s a point guard that belongs in the league and will be here for years to come.

Even Kevin Durant made the comment that he is one of his favorite young players to watch:

Devonte’ Graham has the potential to become a mini Damian Lillard.

He may not be nearly as explosive as Dame or as skilled overall, but hear me out… he does have a skill-set that matches up with the six-time all-star.

Devonte’ has the ability to shoot from deep, I’m talking Mariana Trench depth… and he’s able to do it off the dribble or from the catch and shoot.

In his sophomore season Graham developed his off the dribble 3-pointer, which is a much more difficult shot to make, one Damian Lillard has mastered. While last season he learned how to become more of a catch and shoot 3-point shooter alongside LaMelo Ball.

He has shot around 37% from long range on nine attempts per game in the past two seasons.

Aside from being a 3-point threat, Devonte’ Graham has proven to have that same clutch gene that Damian Lillard has. He has shown up in clutch time multiple times for the Charlotte Hornets and even hit a few game winners for them.

It’s a huge plus to be gifted with the clutch gene, because it’s important for a team to have a player that you can trust with the ball in his hands at the end of the game. It can make or break a game. Every team needs players that have this trait. Last season, the New Orleans Pelicans didn’t have a go-to option for end of the game situations. Now they do.

Not only has Devonte’ Graham shown he has the ability to score at a high clip and take over in clutch time, but he also knows how to facilitate the ball.

Devonte’ Graham has averaged around six assists per game over the past two seasons.

While Devonte’ is very confident from three, he also has a high basketball IQ and understands when to make the right play. Devonte’ can get to the rim and make drop off passes to cutters in the lane, throw accurate lob passes, and drive and kick to open shooters.

The PG has the ability to be a scorer when needed, but also turn into a real playmaker at times and get everyone involved as well.

Devonte’ Graham seems excited about landing in New Orleans. He understands the opportunity he has for the Pelicans and a what a difference he can make for this team.

Now in his fourth season, he’ll have the chance to take everything he’s learned in his different roles and bring it all together for the New Orleans Pelicans.