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What’s the deal?
The New Orleans Pelicans seem to be all-in on doing more than simply making next year’s postseason. Their recent addition of former Sixer JJ Redick brings much needed shooting to this exciting, young squad. Furthermore, it brings a veteran presence with some recent playoff experience. So, what was Redick’s deal?
The shooting guard is going to bring home $26.5 million over the next two years. Spotrac has reported that Redick will earn $12.9 million this year and $13.6 million in the 2020-21 season. As of now the entire contract seems to be guaranteed.
What does Redick bring to the team?
How does Redick fit with his new team? After winning the Zion sweepstakes and trading away Anthony Davis, the Pelicans revamped their roster with youthful talent. Yet, Williamson, Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball and Jrue Holiday are not known to be solid 3-point shooters. Redick will immediately impact this team’s offensive spacing.
Last year was Redick’s best, as the 35-year-old showed no signs of wear and tear on the offensive end. He took a career high eight triples per game and sunk 39 percent of them. His arrival six years ago in Los Angeles marked a positive change in his career trajectory. Since then the sniper has become an elite shooter by draining 42 percent of his 3-pointers.
What this move means for New Orleans?
At first glance his arrival appears to create a log jam at the Pelicans’ guard positions. After all, they can trot out Ball, Holiday, Redick, Josh Hart and new draftee Nickeil Alexander-Walker. How will this all pan out during the season?
Redick was signed for a reason. As one of the game’s top perimeter shooters, he will constantly run through screens to confuse defenses. Defensively, the addition of Redick could suggest that New Orleans wants Ball to guard forwards. At 6-foot-6 with quick feet, an increasingly strong frame and long arms, Ball could be deployed in small ball sets that feature Williamson at the five. A lineup of Williamson, Ingram, Ball, Redick and Holiday is something worth experimenting with.
It is also worth noting that Ball, Holiday and Hart have all dealt with injuries throughout their careers. In fact, Ball has only played in 60 percent of all possible games so far. Plus, Brandon Ingram has a blood clot disorder. Redick is nice insurance in case any of these guys miss time.
How would you grade this contract?
This signing receives a solid A from me. The most glaring need for this squad was shooting. Not only did New Orleans sign one of the best 3-point shooters in the league but, they did it on an affordable deal.
Final thought
There were numerous teams who longed after Redick. The way his skill set impacts offenses is obvious. The Pelicans pulled off one of my favorite moves of the offseason. Perhaps they will now look to ship off one of they young guards to make their roster even more impressive.