The New Orleans Pelicans may be the team to give the Philadelphia 76ers what they need. The 76ers should be looking for a trade partner for Al Horford this summer. And while they have a young roster, the Pelicans must seek veteran leadership, especially in the paint. So, why not look into a Jrue Holiday for Horford trade?
The Pelicans have a nice nucleus with Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram and now Zion Williamson. But what if the key piece missing is someone in the paint? There is always the option of adding someone such as Enes Kanter, Dwight Howard or drafting young. The right way to go for them would be to bring in a vet who has won before and be willing to show the younger guys what it takes.
While Horford is not having a breakout year with the 76ers this season, his averages of 11.7 points and 6.8 rebounds are slightly down from his career averages. Playing with Joel Embidd and Tobias Harris in the frontcourt, Horford had to know his numbers would take a slight dip. But if the 76tes are serious about adding players who can create off the dribble and shoot, then this is a move they must consider this offseason.
The factor of money is huge here. Horford has 3 years remaining on his deal after this season and Holiday has one. But still, this is a gamble that either team cannot afford not to take. Horford will fit in nicely with the Pelicans young core and as for the 76ers and Holiday, it’s a reunion of sorts. Philadelphia is where Holiday earned his respect as an All-Star and a place where his talents are sorely needed.
Adding Holiday (19.2 points and 6.9 assists) to a unit that features Embiid, Harris, Josh Richardson, and Ben Simmons will place them as heavy favorites to walk away with the NBA Championship in 2021. With Simmons’ dribble penetration, Embiid’s low-post scoring and Harris doing heavy lifting on both ends of the floor, Holiday will be free to cause havoc with penetration and spot-up shooting. Then, Brett Brown can get really creative with his lineups.
Jrue Holiday has always been a fan favorite for 76ers fans. He played his heart out while in Philly and a return could be the missing piece of the puzzle the Philadelphia 76ers need to reach the elite level. All it takes is Elton Brand having the guts to pull the trigger and the Pelicans being brave enough to accept it.
