NBA Trade Rumors: Earlier this offseason, the New Orleans Pelicans shopped Devonte’ Graham. Would they part ways with him?
The New Orleans Pelicans are hoping they have finally begun to turn the corner as a franchise. Zion Williamson is returning healthy, CJ McCollum proved to be a solid addition to the team, and Brandon Ingram has continued to hit his stride in New Orleans.
Although, according to a recent report, the Pelicans could be looking to make some adjustments to the team. And one could be shopping a player such as Devonte’ Graham.
Graham was acquired last offseason from the Charlotte Hornets and is coming off a season in which he averaged 12 points and four assists per game on just 36 percent shooting from the field. It was truly a down season for how his career began with the Hornets.
Though, he’s still an intriguing young talent.
"[via NOLA.com]“Earlier this offseason, the Pelicans quietly explored Graham trades, league sources said,”"
Looking into the future, it’s clear that the Pelicans will try to be prudent with their money. New Orleans has some big decisions to make regarding some of their other talented young players not named Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, who recently got max contract extensions.
In addition to Zion and Ingram, the Pelicans will likely have to pay CJ McCollum after next season and decisions will soon have to be made regarding Jaxson Hayes, Larry Nance Jr., and Kira Lewis.
New Orleans can’t seemingly pay everyone and with roughly $100 million tied up in just McCollum, Zion, and Ingram next season, some tough decisions will have to be made. Including one on Graham.
Even though Graham still has three years left on his deal, he’s the type of player that could end up being expendable for the team. He plays a position that has become a premium for the Pelicans with the acquisition of McCollum and the rise of Jose Alvarado.
If the Pelicans wanted to find ways to save some money heading into the future, it’s easy to see why Graham could emerge as a candidate.
Even aside from being linked to Kevin Durant, the Pelicans are an interesting team heading into this season. Without a big acquisition, this is still a team that has some really good talent on their roster. Question is, can they finally put it all together while maintaining health?