Golden State Warriors: 5 Teams That Could Be Like Them In 2013-14
By Joe Moore
New Orleans Pelicans
The Pelicans’ offseason is deserving of a much more developed post. After trading Nerlens Noel and a 2014 top-5 protected draft pick to the Philadelphia 76ers for Jrue Holiday, the Pelicans emphatically declared that they intended to win sooner rather than later, while maintaining their potential to be successful in the future.
Apr 14, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Hornets mascot Hugo with New Orleans Hornets power forward Anthony Davis following a loss to the Dallas Mavericks at the New Orleans Arena. The Mavericks defeated the Hornets 107-89. The game was the final home game for the Hornets franchise as they will be rebranded as the New Orleans Pelicans starting next season. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
This decision displays several interesting factors in the decisions of NBA teams. The Pelicans front office was influenced by owner Tom Benson’s desire to avoid a lengthy rebuilding process. In addition to the role of ulterior factors – financial and moral motivations- the Jrue Holiday trade calls into question the perceived value of potential versus production. Neither Noel nor the 2014 pick are guaranteed to reach Holiday’s current level (and Holiday still has potential to improve), however they both have the potential to surpass Holiday.
NBA front offices, along with humans in general, are generally risk averse. The potential for future loss often drives general managers, investors, or consumers to shy away from immediate gains (Of course, with Noel’s knee injury and clouded potential, the risks and rewards are more difficult to identify. Personally, I believe Noel can be a highly impactful defensive player with a Tyson Chandler-style offensive game well worth a No. 1 pick).
But, regardless of the several opinions on one of the NBA’s most interesting transactions, the Pelicans are committed to their current roster (though an Eric Gordon trade is still possible) and a talented roster it is.