As it stands, the New Orleans Pelicans don’t figure to be huge players in free agency, as they have 14 players under contract for next season and three picks in the 2022 NBA Draft.
But things can change quickly, as the Pelicans could make a trade to clear a roster spot, grab some cap space, move up in the draft or even trade back if the right opportunity presents itself.
The roster is far from set, so New Orleans hasn’t been ruled out of the free-agent market. One potential positional need is an upgrade at guard, where they have just CJ McCollum, backup point guard Jose Alvarado, Devonte’ Graham and Kira Lewis Jr. who will be coming back from injury.
It’s possible Graham or Lewis Jr. could be traded, and if they are, the New Orleans Pelicans could look for an upgrade at guard in free agency.
These three players would be fits for the Pels.
New Orleans Pelicans: Free-agent guard fits
Option 1: Tyus Jones
Tyus Jones is going to be an unrestricted free agent during the offseason and has one of the best assist to turnover ratios in NBA history. Although, he is a backup point guard for the Memphis Grizzlies, he can be a valuable starting guard. He proved that with the Grizzlies by stepping up when Ja Morant was hurt. Jones averaged 8 PPG, 4 APG, and .6 turnovers last season. He could be valuable for the Pelicans with his passing, defense and 39 percent shooting from long range while helping the Pels play clean basketball and eliminate the silly turnovers and mistakes. He’d also be taking away a valuable player from rival Memphis, which is a side benefit.
Option 2: Lonnie Walker IV
Lonnie Walker IV will be a restricted free agent this offseason and is a solid guard who has been with the San Antonio Spurs throughout his entire career. Growing under the wing of Gregg Popovich, he has been able to develop throughout the years into a playmaking guard with athleticism. Last season, he averaged 12 PPG off of 40% shooting and would give the Pelicans more bounce off the bench.
Option 3: Pat Connaughton
Pat Connaughton is entering his 8th NBA season next year and would look good in a Pelicans uniform. Connaughton has a player option for next season that he could decline in favor of a multi-year deal. He averages 9 PPG off the bench but is a good three point shooter averaging, 39.5 percent on over five attempts per game. The Pelicans need a three point shooter to match their paint scoring, create more space and eliminate the traffic down low. He has been essential for the Milwaukee Bucks the last four seasons when Khris Middleton has been out with injury.
The Pelicans are a well-rounded team with a potential to run deep in the NBA Playoffs next year and the right free-agent acquisition could push them over the top.