Unlike most teams who have just shed their star player in a trade a la the Pelicans with Anthony Davis, New Orleans is not set up as a team that will tank moving forward. Most teams do not receive the haul of players and picks the Pelicans did and most teams do not have an incumbent player as good as Jrue Holiday. And most importantly, most teams do not have a player like Zion Williamson waiting in the wings to take over.
That combination of circumstances makes the Pelicans a unique team heading into free agency this summer. New Orleans could move in a number of different ways whether it’s targeting young players or veterans to surround its young core. With Al Horford on the market and a potential mysterious team in the mix, many had speculated that the Pelicans could be in the mix including Bill Simmons and Marc Stein on the latest Bill Simmons Podcast.
However, the morning after suggesting the Pelicans as a potential suitor, Stein shot down his own speculation, stating the Pelicans would not be in on Horford.
There are many reasons why the pairing between the two sides would have made sense. Horford would have served as a perfect role model not just for the young core as a whole but specifically Williamson. For the Pelicans, Horford would have filled the lone hole in the starting lineup at the center position.
But it would have been a risky move for Horford as he is likely looking to play on a contender. While the Pelicans have promise and optimism, contending may be a step too far next season. Still, don’t be surprised if the Pelicans are in on veteran, impact free agents in the coming week.
