Only one team this summer has over $30 million in cap space, and it's not the New Orleans Pelicans; it's the Brooklyn Nets. That being said, Pels' Nation's hope of making a free agency move isn't lost, as they will have the option of using the taxpayer mid-level exception, which is projected to be worth 5.7 million. Although the taxpayer MLE isn't enough to sign a first-class free agent, the Pelicans can still add a high-quality player to help fill a need.
One of the Pels' most significant needs is three-point shooting, as they ranked in the bottom five in both three-pointers made and attempted last season. So, signing a good shooter should be at the top of their free agent board. Enter Amir Coffey.
Bringing the Coffey Shop to NOLA
Amir Coffey has spent all six of his NBA years with the Clippers, but after the season he just had, that era will be ending. Overall, Coffey had a great season this year, averaging 9.7 points per game, shooting 40.9% from deep and 47.1% from the field in 72 games. When his number was called to be a starter, he was even better, averaging 12.8 points a game, drilling 43.4% of his threes and shooting 52.5% from the field.
During his time in the association, he has been a career 38.4% three-point shooter on 800 attempts, which shows how incredible a shooter he is. The 27-year-old wing is especially great from the corner, as he ranked in the 92nd percentile in corner three-pointers among forwards this past season.
Three-point shooting is at a premium in the modern NBA, and when you consider how poorly the Pels shot last year, Coffey could help. Obviously, you are signing him mainly for the three-point shooting, but he also provides a ton of energy on the defensive side of the basketball.
But Coffey offers more than just shooting. He is also a quality defender. At 6’8", he does a good job staying in front of his man and coming up with stops. Coffey isn’t loved by advanced defensive metrics or even traditional defensive stats like steals and blocks. That being said, those who watched him play this season know he is a good defender at the very least.
Coffey provides extreme value in the health department. He has never suffered a significant injury and has remained constantly healthy throughout his career, something the Pels desperately need. Coffey is best suited to come off the bench for New Orleans, but can also go and produce as a starter if needed. He is a must-get for this team, and if they pass up on him, they will regret it.