Offseason Preview: New Orleans Pelicans

New Orleans Pelicans (30-52)

*Photo via Getty Images

Recap

After making the playoffs for the first time last year since the rebranding of the franchise, the New Orleans Pelicans failed to repeat the same success. Jrue Holiday missed significant time along with Eric Gordon, Tyreke Evans and the franchise player, Anthony Davis. As well, it seemed that the team just wasn’t able to be on the floor at the same time to get anything going. Going forward some of their key players are free agents so look for the Pelicans to receive their much needed facelift this offseason.

Free Agents

Restricted – James Ennis, Tim Frazier

Options – Alonzo Gee, Luke Babbitt, Toney Douglas

Unrestricted – Ryan Anderson, Norris Cole, Alonzo Gee, Eric Gordon, Jordan Hamilton, Kendrick Perkins

Who Leaves, Who Stays

Count Eric Gordon out. The Pelicans have had enough of his inability to stay healthy. The Nets, Kings and Lakers are all interested in Ryan Anderson and I’m pretty sure that the Pelicans will not match the deal he will warrant. Frazier will be back unless another team believes he’s the next big thing and offers him a ridiculous deal. The Pelicans have decided to not tender a qualifying offer to James Ennis, so he could come back at the right price. Alonzo Gee decided to opt-out and go with God.

Needs

Healthy, reliable backups for the injury prone Evans, Holiday and Davis would make a lot of sense, so a point guard, wings and a stretch-four will do the trick.

Possible Moves

Gerald Henderson – Heady veteran

Jared Dudley – Good Shooter

Kent Bazemore – Could be expensive due to the interest other teams are showing

Evan Turner – A player who could be the gospel for NO because of his versatility

Brandon Jennings – The Pelicans could use as a starter or backup

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