The Pelicans will not make a qualifying offer to forward Cheick Diallo, tweets Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN. As a result, the 22-year-old Malian will become an unrestricted free agent on June 30.
While Diallo projects as a promising young player, the move is not entirely surprising, as the Pelicans have the opportunity to be active in free agency after trading away Anthony Davis. Even though it’s a relatively modest amount, clearing Diallo’s $1.93MM cap hold from their books creates more cap room for the team to pursue top free agents.
Additionally, the Pelicans just drafted Zion Williamson with the No. 1 overall pick and he projects to play the same position as Diallo.
Diallo, a former McDonald’s All-American, was drafted 33rd overall in 2016 by the Clippers, but was acquired by New Orleans on draft night. In three seasons, he’s averaged 12.6 minutes, 5.5 points and 4.6 rebounds per contest while appearing in 133 games.
Cuz they stooopid
Hmmmmm… I’m not one to question Griffin… but… 1.93 seems like a modest number for a productive player. I know you have to clear cap space and that’s what this league is seemingly all about these days, but at some point you need to suit up players. And he’s a good young player.
it’s mainly because there loaded at forward.
Diallo has potential. He’s still very young and he always been very productive for the short minutes he plays. I am sure there are a lot of teams willing to drop short money on him.
I think Diallo would have benefited greatly from another year at Kansas. He had enough potential to improve up to possibly a late lottery pick.
If he’ll take a vet min BKN would be a good fit. He’s a better and bigger RHJ.