3 Pelicans that earned untouchable status, 3 that should be cut loose
By Tyler Watts
New Orleans Pelicans that earned untouchable status: 3. Herbert Jones
Jones was a second-round draft pick in 2021, but he instantly made an impact on the defensive end of the floor. The 6’8 forward is the team’s best perimeter defender, and he can guard virtually every player on the court. It is his defense and potential that make him desired by every team in the league.
The 24-year-old averaged 9.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.6 steals in 29.6 minutes per game in his second season. He shot just 33.5 percent from 3-point range, and the franchise would love to see him transform into a league-average shooter to go with his stellar defense.
New Orleans was a significantly better team when Hebert Jones played, and the 6’8 wing is extension eligible this summer. Can the two sides agree on a new deal, or does Jones become a restricted free agent in 2024? The Pelicans need to keep him, and they should lock him up long-term before he gets a chance to hit the market.