The New Orleans Pelicans find themselves at a precipice and they are showcasing it in the 2022 NBA playoffs. If Zion Williamson wants out, they may be looking at a wasted era. If he’s willing to buy in, they could be on the cusp of something special.
At full strength, they may be a point guard away from contention. Devonte’ Graham is a quality reserve, but he may not be a starter.
The same goes for surprising rookie Jose Alvarado. C.J. McCollum filled in admirably at the 1 this season, but he may be happy to return to his typical off-guard position.
Mike Conley could be the glue that holds the Pelicans’ pieces together. The heady veteran is capable of functioning in a low-usage, floor-spacing role. He’s also capable of running the offense when called upon to do so. That malleable skillset could be critical for a team featuring ball-dominant stars like Williamson and Brandon Ingram.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: This Spurs-Pelicans Trade Sends Doug McDermott To New Orleans
The Pels will have more pressing questions to answer this summer than finding a starting point guard. Namely, questions surrounding Williamson’s future.
Acquiring a quality floor general could be the first step towards getting the answer they want. Here are two trade packages that land Mike Conley in the Big Easy.