The New Orleans Pelicans concluded the 2023-24 season disappointingly after a promising start, facing a heartbreaking first-round playoff exit at the hands of the Oklahoma City Thunder. Now, significant changes appear imminent for the team. A key focus is on the future of Brandon Ingram, with indications suggesting the All-Star small forward might be departing from New Orleans.
In addition to Ingram’s situation, attention is on how the Pelicans will shape the rest of their roster. Trey Murphy III is approaching a rookie scale contract extension, while it’s anticipated that the team will need to find a replacement for Jonas Valanciunas, who seems likely to depart in free agency. Reports suggest the Pelicans are eyeing Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen as a potential option to fill this gap.
According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, Allen is among the Pelicans’ top choices to succeed Valanciunas. Speculation revolves around a potential trade involving Brandon Ingram heading to the Cavs, with Caris LeVert also potentially joining Allen in New Orleans.
The Cleveland Cavaliers, seeking a high-caliber wing player to elevate their team, may see Ingram as a solution. However, for the Pelicans, trading Ingram, who is entering the final year of his contract, for Allen and LeVert raises questions, particularly regarding how Allen would mesh with Zion Williamson.
The Pelicans may face competition in the trade pursuit for Allen, with the Memphis Grizzlies and Oklahoma City Thunder also emerging as potential destinations for the Cavaliers’ big man. Despite Zion Williamson’s recurring injuries, he continues to showcase his dominance as the cornerstone of the Pelicans, particularly with his aggressive rim attacks, reminiscent of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s formidable style of play.
