Los Angeles Clippers Receive: G Lonzo Ball
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: F Marcus Morris, G Patrick Beverley and 2021 First-Round Pick
Lonzo Ball’s fit with the Clippers is a very good one. He is the kind of playmaker they need alongside Paul George and Kawhi Leonard. His game was beginning to round into shape this season, as he improved offensively with his shooting. With his already high level of defense, the Clippers would be strong on both ends of the court.
As for the compensation in this deal, Los Angeles would have to part ways with their 2021 first-round pick. Neither Marcus Morris nor Patrick Beverley would be in the Pelicans’ long-term plans, as they are 31 and 33 years old, respectively.
Of the two, Morris would be the more useful player for New Orleans. His floor spacing would be welcome alongside Zion Williamson, giving the Pelicans an intriguing frontcourt trio with those two and Brandon Ingram when the team goes smaller. He would bring veteran leadership, something the team may lose with James Johnson hitting free agency.
As for Beverley, his need is to match up salary, but the Pelicans have little use for him. They already have a veteran point guard in Eric Bledsoe on the roster.
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If they do not retain Ball, it would be to give minutes to their young guards, Kira Lewis Jr. and Nickeil Alexander-Walker, not sit them behind another veteran player.
