3 Pelicans that earned untouchable status, 3 that should be cut loose
By Tyler Watts
![New Orleans Pelicans, Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III, Jonas Valanciunas, Herbert Jones (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) New Orleans Pelicans, Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III, Jonas Valanciunas, Herbert Jones (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/8e7190434b05956d0947012918f4b413c049f7a309749d76bd5a7154d5018bc7.jpg)
New Orleans Pelicans that should be cut loose: 3. Jaxson Hayes
The Pelicans have done well in the draft in recent years, but Hayes has not worked out. The 6’11 big man was the eighth overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, and he just completed his rookie contract. He is a restricted free agent this summer, but the Pelicans should just let him walk out the door.
Hayes averaged a career-low 5.0 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 0.5 blocks in 13.0 minutes per game this season. He shot 55.1 percent from the field and 10.3 percent on his threes, which were both the worst marks in his four years in New Orleans. His role was inconsistent, and Hayes played in just 47 games, despite being healthy during the 2022-23 campaign.
Hayes is 22 years old, but it appears a fresh start is best for both parties. The 6’11 big man’s playing time and production decreased in year four, and he dealt with some legal trouble. It is best if New Orleans moves on or trades him for a second-round draft choice.
Perhaps, Jaxson Hayes can jumpstart his career in another city, but his days with the Pelicans appear numbered. None of that should come as a surprise to fans.