If the Pelicans decide to shake things up this summer, Jonas Valanciunas could be on the move, Christian Clark of the New Orleans Times-Picayune writes. Valanciunas will have an expiring $15.435MM contract next season and the Pelicans’ coaching staff showed a lack of trust in the veteran center during high-leverage moments, Clark observes. He averaged 14.1 points and 10.2 rebounds per game.
We have more on the Pelicans:
- The fact that CJ McCollum played 37 games with a torn ligament in the thumb of his shooting hand shouldn’t be overlooked, Rod Walker of the Times-Picayune opines. By doing so, McCollum displayed the importance of leading by example, a role he embraces both on and off the court. Despite the injury, McCollum averaged 20.9 points and 5.7 assists in 75 games this season.
- The growth of Trey Murphy in his second season was one of the few bright spots for the franchise in 2022/23, Clark writes in a separate story. Murphy raised his scoring average from 5.4 points per game as a rookie to 14.5 PPG this season. He has developed into a prolific shooter, averaging 48.4% from the field overall, 40.6% on 3-point attempts and 90.5% from the free throw line.
- In case you missed it, top executive David Griffin said he didn’t anticipate making “huge moves” this offseason.
Who is the upgrade over Val?
Adams.
I’m wondering the same thing…
Welcome back to the Rators Jonas !!!
I think these teams matchup well if NO wants to shake things up and the Raptors go into a ST rebuild. Any combo of OG, Siakam or Poetle I’m fine moving if we get picks and pieces on Scotties timeline.
Jonas would be perfect for the Nets.