6 Potential Pelicans free agent targets with ties to Zion Williamson
By Tyler Watts
4. Mason Plumlee
The veteran big man spent four years at Duke from 2009 to 2013. He helped the Blue Devils win an NCAA title and became an All-American before being drafted 22nd overall. Zion and Plumlee were not at the university at the same time, but the bond is always strong with former players.
The 34-year-old is past his prime and just finished a one-year $5 million deal with the Clippers. He averaged 5.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.2 assists in 14.7 minutes per game. Plumlee is a strong finisher around the rim and rebounder, but his defense has slipped. The 11-year NBA veteran will likely be searching for a place on a contender in free agency.
The Pelicans need a center Jonas Valanciunas and Cody Zeller are both free agents this summer. They tried to trade JV before the 2023-24 campaign, but could not find an upgrade. New Orleans wants more rim protection and needs two big men to replace their current duo.
Plumlee offers more than on-court production. The veteran is a strong leader and locker room presence, which the Pelicans need. This may not be a game-changing signing on the floor, but the 34-year-old big man may help everyone perform better in the Big Easy.