The Pelicans made a splash this offseason, acquiring talented 7-0 big man Steven Adams from the Oklahoma City Thunder. It was hailed as a smart move by the franchise, and a step in the right direction after years of underwhelming finishes in the West.
But no all are convinced it will yield positive results.
On their NBA Show podcast, basketball analysts John Hollinger and Nate Duncan explained why they have their doubts about the Pels’ newest acquisition.
Duncan: “I thought the Steven Adams (trade) was absolutely assinine.”
Hollinger: “I completely agree, A. why are you giving up a first and two seconds for almost any 5 in the NBA B. you’re playing *this* guy next to Zion? You already have no shooting.”
Zion Williamson is one of the best, most promising young players in the NBA. But his one major flaw, at least at this point in time, is his ability to stretch the floor. In 24 games, Zion hit just 6 three-pointers last season, not exactly what you’re looking to see from your star player in the modern NBA.
Surrounding him in the starting five are Eric Bledsoe, JJ Redick, Brandon Ingram, Zion Williamson, and Steven Adams.
With Redick and Ingram alone, New Orleans does have some weapons on the wing. Still, it hasn’t stopped folk from questioning if Adams was the right addition. Will he and Zion be able to co-exist on the inside? Was giving up three draft picks too much for a talented, but low-ceiling player?
No doubt, anything but a deep playoff run will be a failure for this team, so all the pressure is on them to put together something special this upcoming season.
