The Pelicans want this All-Star but will struggle to convince his current team to trade him.
The New Orleans Pelicans have several issues to address this offseason. Their biggest is what to do with Brandon Ingram. The All-Star is entering the final year of his contract and it is time to trade him if BI is set on signing a max contract. It is far from New Orleans’s only issue, and the Pels must improve their roster’s fit before training camp begins this fall.
Finding a starting center is a must. Jonas Valanciunas is headed towards unrestricted free agency and appears gone. The Pelicans tried to trade him last offseason, but no deal materialized. New Orleans needs an upgrade next to Zion Williamson, but finding one won’t be easy.
The Pels are over the cap but under the luxury tax. The franchise won’t pay a hefty bill after a first-round playoff exit. It is time to upgrade their roster, and the latest rumors suggest New Orleans knows who they want. The franchise’s desire is clear, but the plans from the big man’s team are uncertain.
Christian Clark from the New Orleans Times-Picayune reported the Pelicans’ interest in Jarrett Allen but mentioned their unsuccessful attempts to acquire him. Since the 2023 offseason, the team has been pursuing an upgrade at center to complement Zion Williamson with a reliable rim protector.
Allen, in his seventh NBA season, averaged 16.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.1 blocks per game in 31.7 minutes. Despite advancing to the playoffs’ second round, Allen’s postseason was limited to just four games due to injury.
The situation in Cleveland is complex as they contemplate offseason changes while navigating contract negotiations with key players like Donovan Mitchell. The Cavaliers are hesitant to part with their top talents, including Allen, who has a significant connection with Mitchell.
According to Marc Stein, the Cavaliers prioritize retaining Allen due to his relationship with Mitchell, a five-time All-Star. However, if Mitchell declines an extension, Cleveland may reconsider its stance and explore trade options. Mitchell’s contract situation will heavily influence the team’s future decisions, potentially impacting Allen’s tenure with the Cavaliers.
The New Orleans Pelicans are poised to aggressively upgrade their roster this summer, aiming to bolster their chances for a deep playoff run. Securing a starting center and enhancing their roster around Zion Williamson are top priorities for the team’s front office led by David Griffin.
