There are many reasons for the New Orleans Pelicans to avoid trading for Ja Morant. But there is one simple reason they should: He can still be one of the best players in the NBA.
There is no question about whether Morant can perform at a high level. He has done it before. In 2021-2022, Morant averaged over 27 points per game on 49% shooting from the field and 34% shooting from beyond the arc. In his seven-year career, Morant is averaging 22.4 points per game and 7.4 assists per game. The guy can flat out play.
Ja Morant comes with baggage
Yes, there are plenty of reasons to avoid Morant. He is injured a lot, he has off the court drama, he is being paid a lot of money the next few years, and his on-court performance took a sharp downturn last season.
There are also legitimate questions about whether Morant would actually be a good fit on the Pelicans next to guys like Derik Queen and Zion Williamson. Adding another player who can’t stretch the floor next to Williamson is not ideal. But a change of scenery can go a long way for a talented player like Morant.
I only really need one reason to argue the Pelicans should take a chance on Morant. The former second overall draft pick is a really good basketball player. The Pelicans desperately need more really good players.
Ja Morant is too good to pass up
When at his best, Morant is a gamechanger on offense. I remember being extremely frustrated watching Pelicans games against the Grizzlies because no one on the Pelicans could stop him.
If there is an opportunity to acquire Morant, I say Joe Dumars and Troy Weaver should do it. If you hire the right head coach you let them figure out how to make all the pieces work together.
There obviously is the big question of what would it take to acquire Morant. Part of the reason I’m saying the Pelicans should pull the trigger on a Morant trade now is that you would be buying low on the one-time superstar.
If the Grizzlies want something like Herb Jones or Trey Murphy in return I would absolutely say no. However, if you can get away with sending something like Dejounte Murray and/or Jordan Poole I think you must make the deal.
Even for those who think the Pelicans should stay away from Morant, they would have to agree that there is the potential for some highlight-reel plays with Morant and Williamson playing together.
Lets make it fun to watch the Pelicans again.
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