Making the Case: New Orleans Pelicans
Even after trading for CJ McCollum, the New Orleans Pelicans should use more offensive firepower and outside shooting. Doug McDermott would be a perfect target to fill those holes.
In 2021-22, the former Creighton Bluejay put up 11.3 points per game on 46 percent shooting, including 42 percent from deep. That efficiency would automatically make him the most accurate sniper on the Pelicans roster, aside from Larry Nance Jr. who only put up eight attempts from deep in his short time with New Orleans last season.
There’s no doubt that McDermott’s marksmanship and tough shot-making would have been a welcome addition to their lineup in Game 3 against the Suns when the Pelicans failed to match Phoenix’s clutch scoring led by Chris Paul.
McDermott isn’t without his flaws, as he’s a negative on defense and doesn’t offer much else aside from outside shooting and play finishing. Nevertheless, the Pelicans roster certainly has room for a specialist like him.
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In this scenario, they only have to give up Jaxson Hayes — a talented, but troubled young player — and Garrett Temple — a past-his-prime, 3-and-D wing. New Orleans has the personnel to replace McDermott’s price tag and fill in for his weaknesses. This trade would be a no-brainer for Pelicans General Manager David Griffin if it were on the table next season.
