NBA Rumors: Pelicans Exploring Trade Options For Guard
The New Orleans Pelicans are on the verge of being a serious contender in the Western Conference. With the return of Zion Williamson this season, to add to Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum among other pieces, the Pels have the makings of a team on the rise. But the tinkering isn't done for executive VP of basketball operations David Griffin.
#NBA The New Orleans #Pelicans are exploring trade options for Guard Devonte’ Graham #NBATwitter pic.twitter.com/FyfuTfi8Aq
— SportsBuzz (@SportsBuzz07) August 16, 2022
Earlier this offseason, the Pelicans quietly explored (Devonte') Graham trades, league sources said. If the Pelicans do hang onto him, they will have to find out the degree to which he and [Jose] Alvarado can co-exist.
Graham averaged 11.9 points, 4.2 assists and 2.3 rebounds per game largely as the starting PG for the Pels. He shifted into more of a reserve role, however, after the acquisition of McCollum at the trade deadline. Graham only averaged 10 minutes per game in the playoffs.
And that's when Alvarado came on strong, really making an impact in their series against the Phoenix Suns, possibly earning himself more of a substantial role in the New Orleans backcourt.
The undrafted guard upped his playing time from about 15 minutes per game to close to 20 minutes in the playoffs, while averaging 8.0 points and 1.2 steals per game.
Should be an interesting dynamic in the Pels backcourt this season if Graham sticks around.
Photos: Jeffrey Swinger-USA TODAY Sports ,Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
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