The New Orleans Pelicans have emerged as potential suitors for Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen, according to reports. The Pelicans, among other playoff contenders, are said to be interested in making a trade for Allen, who has become a subject of increased attention as teams explore options to enhance their rosters.
The New Orleans Pelicans have shown interest in Jarrett Allen, per @JakeLFischer
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— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) December 20, 2023
Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports reported that Allen has garnered “plenty of interest” from various teams eying potential trades with the Cavaliers. Despite the Cavaliers holding a solid record of 15-12 this season, there are speculations that the front office might consider retooling the roster.
Allen’s performance in the current season has been somewhat underwhelming, with averages of 12.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per game. This marks the second consecutive season where his statistics have seen a decline since signing a five-year, $100 million contract with the Cavaliers.
The dynamics of Allen’s role and fit within the team have played a role in his regression. The Cavaliers found success utilizing Evan Mobley at center, reducing Allen’s prominence. However, with Mobley sidelined due to a knee injury, Allen recently demonstrated his capabilities with a notable 25-point, 14-rebound performance against the Atlanta Hawks.
The Cavaliers, with Mobley as a long-term priority, might view Allen as a potential trade asset ahead of the February deadline. The team could seek to fortify their roster, particularly in the 3-4 swing position, allowing Mobley to transition into a full-time center role.
While non-shooting centers like Allen may not typically command massive trade hauls, a team in need of a center could find him to be a valuable addition. The Pelicans, with reported interest in Allen dating back to previous rumors, could explore potential trade scenarios to bolster their frontcourt.
The Pelicans’ interest in Allen is part of their broader strategy to enhance their frontcourt, exploring avenues to acquire a reliable center. Jonas Valanciunas’ contract situation, entering the final year of his deal, and the desire for defensive upgrades have prompted the Pelicans to explore potential trades, including pursuing players like Jarrett Allen and Isaiah Stewart from the Cleveland Cavaliers and Detroit Pistons, respectively.
Jarrett Allen Will Not Get The Pelicans Closer To Contending
Acquiring Jarrett Allen may not significantly improve the New Orleans Pelicans chances of contending, given their current defensive rating standing at 12th with 112.8. While Allen is a solid defensive presence, the Pelicans’ defensive performance is already decent, and adding him may not be a game-changer.
The key factor determining the Pelicans’ contention status is the performance and development of Zion Williamson. Even with the addition of Allen, the team’s prospects rely heavily on Zion reaching his potential and becoming the superstar that the NBA anticipates. As of now, Zion has not fully regained his form, and until he does, the Pelicans may struggle to compete at the highest level.
While players like Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum contribute to the team’s success, the Pelicans need Zion to emerge as the superstar they envision to elevate the team’s overall performance. Ingram and McCollum can only carry the team so far, and their impact may be limited without Zion playing at an elite level.
The Western Conference is known for its competitiveness, and without Zion operating at his peak, the Pelicans may find it challenging to make a significant impact. The road to contention in such a packed conference requires a team’s top player to be among the league’s elite, and until Zion fulfills that role, the Pelicans might struggle to make substantial progress.
In conclusion, while Jarrett Allen could be a valuable addition to the Pelicans, addressing their defensive needs, the overarching factor in their contention journey lies in Zion Williamson’s performance and progression. Until Zion becomes the superstar the team needs, the Pelicans may face challenges in rising to prominence in the highly competitive Western Conference.
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