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.