The Pelicans’ pick at No. 10 is considered one of the most available in the lottery, Jonathan Givony of ESPN.com writes in his latest mock draft. New Orleans is looking to speed up its timeline to become a contender with Zion Williamson and moving the first-rounder for immediate help is a route to that.
There were recent rumblings that the team was eyeing Damian Lillard, dangling Brandon Ingram and picks for the All-Star point guard. Such a move would shoot New Orleans to at least playoff contention if not more, however, such a deal is unlikely. As we reported on Monday, some around the league believe there would be more advantageous trade packages (including a Ben Simmons-led package) for the Blazers to choose from should the team seriously consider moving Lillard.
While the No. 10 selection alone won’t net a superstar, the Pelicans have the collection of young talent and picks to put together a desirable package for a wide range of players, including All-Star-level talent.
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- In the same mock draft, Givony has the Cavaliers selecting Evan Mobley at No. 3, arguing that the USC big man could coexist with Jarrett Allen in the frontcourt. There’s been some speculation that Cleveland could look to sign-and-trade Allen should they opt to take Mobley, though that scenario is unlikely.
- If the Lakers keep their selection, the franchise will look for ready-made contributors, Givony contends in the same piece. The scribe has Oregon shooting guard Chris Duarte, who will be 24 at the start of the 2021-22 season, heading to Los Angeles at No. 22.
- The Wizards are looking to trade for a second-round pick in the upcoming draft, as we recently on Monday. Washington recently interviewed Isaiah Todd and Daishen Nix of the G-League Ignite, as both guys could be available in the second round and can be productive players in the right environment.
- The Warriors are likely to dangle their No. 7 pick (received from the D’Angelo Russell trade) in addition to center James Wiseman as they look to find immediate roster upgrades. Golden State is not in a situation where they can be patient with another rookie given Stephen Curry‘s timeline.
