How do you build an NBA defense? There are conflicting philosophies. Some feel that it starts with an elite defensive anchor. Others will say that locking down the perimeter is more critical.
Look at the New Orleans Pelicans. They don’t have an anchor. Yet, they’ve managed to put together an elite defense anyway. The Pelicans can get stops at a high level with a platoon of outstanding perimeter defenders.
Sure. With that is it said, how effective could their defense be with an anchor? Perhaps that’s why it’s been rumored that the Pelicans are interested in Jarrett Allen of the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Here’s a deal that sends him there.
NBA Trade Proposal: New Orleans Pelicans Land Cleveland Cavaliers’ Jarrett Allen
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: C Jonas Valanciunas, G Kira Lewis Jr., 2024 First-Round Pick (LAL via NOP)
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: C Jarrett Allen
Having an anchor is an advantage. How about two anchors? Does that provide a team with an advantage, or is it overkill?
The Cavaliers are trying to figure that out. They’ve got Allen on the interior, but at the same time, they’ve got Evan Mobley next to him. So far, it hasn’t looked like a great fit. That said, it’s got nothing to do with defense.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers, New Orleans Pelicans Updates
The offensive fit between this duo has been problematic. A team can benefit from having a pair of anchors, but those benefits won’t amount to much if they’re both non-shooters.
Is it time for the Cavs to move on from Allen?
Why The Cleveland Cavaliers Do The Deal
There are a lot of questions surrounding this Cavaliers squad. Many of them revolve around Donovan Mitchell. It’s heavily speculated that the Cavs could entertain moving him this year.
Perhaps they will, and perhaps they won’t. Either way, Mobley needs to be treated as the most important player on this roster. So, if Allen isn’t a good fit with him, the Cavs should move on. That’s what they’re doing here.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers, New Orleans Pelicans Updates
In return, they’re landing an unprotected first-round pick. They’re also picking up an expiring contract in Valanciunas. Between the draft capital and the financial flexibility, this could be enough for the Cavs to move on from Allen.
Should the Pelicans be interested in him?
Why The New Orleans Pelicans Do The Deal
There’s another notable factor in the Pelicans’ defense. Valaciunas isn’t much of an anchor, but Zion Williamson is something of a liability as well. This team’s ability to defend in spite of those variables is astounding.
Adding Allen would help. He’s the type of defensive eraser that can cover for Williamson. That’s surely why it’s being suggested that the Pelicans could be interested in him.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers, New Orleans Pelicans Updates
He could help them build the best defense in the NBA. Moreover, getting stops leads to better offense through transition opportunities. In the end, adding Allen should benefit their defense – no matter what your philosophy is.
