In recent weeks, the New Orleans Pelicans were linked to rumors suggesting they would be aggressive in making moves to strengthen their roster for a long-term run at contending in the Western Conference.
Initially, the Pelicans appeared focused on trading up in the 2023 NBA Draft, showing a strong interest in Scoot Henderson, who was at the end selected third overall by the Portland Trail Blazers.
However, complications arose when Zion Williamson found himself embroiled in off-court issues, leading to speculation about his future with the team and whether New Orleans might look to trade him.
Despite these developments, the Pelicans did not make any drastic moves, instead acting swiftly once NBA free agency began, securing Herb Jones to a four-year, $54 million deal, as reported by Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN.
While Williamson’s ongoing issues and injury struggles remain a challenge, the Pelicans boast a talented roster, with players like Jones, who is widely regarded as the team’s top defender.
Jones may not turn heads with his offensive statistics, as his contributions often go unnoticed in the box score, but his impact in other areas makes him indispensable to New Orleans.
Just two years into his NBA career, Jones has already established himself as one of the league’s premier defenders and shows promise for continued growth in the coming seasons.
