From New Orleans Pelicans On SI · · 1m 50s
Pelicans Avoid Herb Jones Trap
Pelicans must choose trade direction before moving Herb Jones.
In brief
Pelicans must choose trade direction before moving Herb Jones. Pelicans should trade Herb Jones for a meaningful roster improvement or clear investment in Fears and Queen. Originally reported by New Orleans Pelicans On SI.
Oklahoma City needs help
Oklahoma City has an immediate need for players after Jalen Williams' injury.
Herb Jones trade buzz
Pelicans-Thunder Herb Jones trade idea is picking up steam among pundits.
Thunder's injuries
Williams requires surgery for a fractured fibula and dislocated ankle.
Jones' role in Pelicans
Jones averages a career-low 17.1 minutes with Pelicans.
Pelicans' fourth quarter problem
Pelicans surrendered 108 fourth quarter points in three losses.
Foul trouble issue
Foul trouble has contributed to Jones' limited role with Pelicans.
Jamahl Mosley problem
Team hired Jamahl Mosley to establish defensive identity but he spends most games on bench.
Trade needs to fix fit
Pelicans need more dependable shooting and frontcourt support through trade.
Isiah Hartenstein option
Isiah Hartenstein would represent a trade that signals attempt to compete with current core.
Frontcourt hierarchy
Hartenstein would help establish clearer frontcourt hierarchy with Fears, Queen and Zion Williamson.
Caruso trade option
Caruso could help Pelicans defend guards but would trade Jones' wing size for older backcourt option.
Draft compensation
Draft compensation could improve value but wouldn't resolve basketball problems without backcourt reorganization.
Rebuild strategy
Pelicans should focus on making skills easier to use together rather than trading one veteran.
Prospect return
Return built around prospects and future first-round picks would suggest different direction for rebuild.
Nikola Topic option
Acquiring another young ballhandler like Nikola Topic would need to address minutes for Fears, Murray and Poole.
What happens next
Pelicans should choose direction before choosing return to support rebuild or current roster.
The big picture
Pelicans should trade Herb Jones for a meaningful roster improvement or clear investment in Fears and Queen.
