Some say that a successful NBA team needs a defensive anchor. Others will disagree. They’ll point to the Denver Nuggets as proof. Sure, Jokic improved on defense this year, but calling him an “anchor” would be a stretch.
Are they an exception to the rule? Jokic is arguably the best offensive player on the planet. Does he really provide a fair argument against the need for defensive bigs?
Who’s to say? Either way, it seems that the New Orleans Pelicans want a defensive anchor. Apparently, Jonas Valanciunas isn’t cutting it for them. Would Clint Capela of the Atlanta Hawks do?
The Trade Proposal
Atlanta Hawks Receive: C Jonas Valanciunas, G Kira Lewis Jr.
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: C Clint Capela
Of course, some people don’t like hard and fast rules. They prefer flexibility. That’s fair. Only, don’t we need some rules to govern ourselves? Isn’t there a balance to strike there? How do NBA general managers strike it?
After all, we’ve seen teams succeed without a defensive anchor. On the other hand, we’ve seen women lift cars to free their babies from them. A lot of things in this life are possible.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Clint Capela, New Orleans Pelicans & Atlanta Hawks Updates
That doesn’t make them likely. For our money, having a defensive anchor is the safest way to build an elite defense. Should the Hawks give theirs up?
Why The Atlanta Hawks Do The Deal
Well, consider this a bet on Onyeko Onkongwu from Atlanta’s perspective. He’s been stuck behind Capela in their rotation for quite some time. Meanwhile, Onkongwu has flashed starting caliber potential. Here, they’re finally giving him a chance.
Of course, they’re not simply dumping Capela to clear the lane for Onkongwu. Valanciunas may be a limited defender, but he’s an impactful player. How will the Hawks use him?
We think he’d be an outstanding sixth man. He could also give the Hawks some pure size when Onkongwu is being overpowered. In fact, Valanciunas’ ability to space the floor may allow Atlanta to play the two together.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Clint Capela, New Orleans Pelicans & Atlanta Hawks Updates
Finally, the Hawks are looking to clear cap space. They should be attracted to Valaciunas’ expiring contract. Should the Pelicans send it out?
Why The New Orleans Pelicans Do The Deal
Valanciunas may be an offensively talented big man. He’s superfluous on the Pelicans. After all, Zion Williamson is one of the best offensive players in the NBA. Brandon Ingram is an overqualified second option. The Pelicans are right to prioritize defense at the 5.
They won’t do much better than Capela. He’s among the best defensive big men in the NBA. This deal ought to make the Pelicans better in the short term.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Clint Capela, New Orleans Pelicans & Atlanta Hawks Updates
In the long term, it’s hard to know what the Pelicans are doing. If Williamson can’t stay healthy, all of this is moot. Still, they should plan for his health – and if they do, Capela is a better compliment to him than Valanciunas. After all, he can anchor their defense.
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