Why The New Orleans Pelicans Do The Deal

Realistically, this deal boils down to fulfilling the needs of both of these squads. 

Sure, the Pelicans could also use a stretch big man, but they don’t need one. Zion Williamson isn’t the most active three-point shooter in the league, but unlike Simmons, he’s at least a willing shooter. If the Pelicans started Claxton at the 5, they’d retain four-out spacing. 

Moreover, also unlike Simmons, Williamson struggles on the defensive end. Having a multipositional defensive big alongside him may do more to cover his weaknesses than Valanciunas’ floor-spacing ever could. 

Of course, the Pelicans don’t strictly sacrifice their spacing here, either. Seth Curry makes a living by knocking down threes at an elite level.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jonas Valanciunas, New Orleans Pelicans & Brooklyn Nets Updates

He’s somewhat expendable to the Nets with the similarly-specialized Joe Harris returning, whereas the Pelicans are lacking elite shooting specialists as currently constructed. 

Acquiring one, along with a versatile defensive big, could be a way for this team to evolve – into a contender.