The New Orleans Pelicans have been on the verge of something special for some time. However, various factors, such as injuries, roster fit, and late-game performances, have kept them from reaching their full potential.
The recent trade for Dejounte Murray should address some of those issues, but the roster still has some glaring needs. One of the most significant concerns is Brandon Ingram’s contract situation. Typically a team that avoids high payrolls, the Pelicans have yet to extend Ingram, and with each passing day, it seems less likely.
Additionally, the departures of Jonas Valanciunas and Larry Nance Jr. have left the team without a reliable center. Finding a replacement in that position should be a priority.
Here are three potential options that could help the Pelicans fill this void.
New Orleans is looking for a center who can also provide shooting, a key component when pairing with Zion Williamson at power forward. With limited options for stretch bigs in the current market, Myles Turner could be a potential trade target later in the season.
At 28, Turner fits the Pelicans’ timeline and addresses their needs. Turner is a career 36% shooter from beyond the arc and averaged over 17 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game last season.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Myles Turner, Indiana Pacers, New Orleans Pelicans Updates
His ability to stretch the floor while providing strong rim protection makes him an ideal candidate for New Orleans. Few players in the league fit their system better than Turner.
If Turner is not available, Wendell Carter Jr. could be another option. Carter offers a similar skill set, with a slight edge defensively, particularly in his ability to switch onto perimeter players. At 25, Carter is still young and has room to develop. Although he hasn’t been a focal point in Orlando’s offense, he has demonstrated his ability to stretch the floor.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Wendell Carter Jr, Orlando Magic, New Orleans Pelicans Updates
Last season, Carter averaged 11 points per game while shooting 37% from three-point range. His defense and rebounding make him a solid, affordable option for the Pelicans to consider.
While Jarrett Allen doesn’t offer shooting, the success of Zion Williamson playing alongside Jonas Valančiūnas showed that a non-shooter can still complement Williamson’s game.
Allen could be a strong fit in New Orleans, particularly if the Pelicans pursue a trade involving Ingram. In return, New Orleans would acquire a Defensive Player of the Year candidate at the center position.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers, New Orleans Pelicans Updates
Allen’s offensive contributions are often overlooked, as he is an effective finisher and rim-runner. His playmaking and screen-setting are also above average for his position. Trading for Allen would be a costly gamble, but it could significantly bolster the Pelicans’ defense and overall roster balance.
