NEWSLETTER
The New Orleans Pelicans find themselves in an intriguing position heading into the 2024 NBA Draft. This New Orleans Pelicans mock draft focuses on adding the best player available. With only one pick at their disposal, the 21st overall selection, they must carefully weigh their options and make a decision that could significantly impact their future.
In this New Orleans Pelicans mock draft, we will analyze their potential options and ultimately select Terrence Shannon from Illinois as the best choice for the Pelicans at the 21st pick. We will also discuss other potential options, including Tyler Smith (G-league), Zach Edey (Purdue), Carlton Carrington (Pitt), Kyshawn George (Miami), Kel’el Ware (IU), and Kyle Filipowski (Duke).
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New Orleans Pelicans Mock Draft: Top Option at Pick 21
Terrence Shannon, Illinois: Terrence Shannon is an athletic wing player with a high motor and a knack for scoring. At 6’6″ with a strong frame, he possesses the physical tools to excel at the NBA level. Shannon is a versatile scorer who can create his own shot off the dribble and finish at the rim. His ability to attack the basket and draw fouls makes him a valuable asset in today’s NBA. Shannon’s defensive potential is also intriguing, as he has the size and athleticism to guard multiple positions. The New Orleans Pelicans would be adding a potentially instant starter with Shannon.
New Orleans Pelicans Mock Draft: Other Options at Pick 21
Tyler Smith (G-league): Tyler Smith is a dynamic guard who has spent time in the G-league developing his game. He is an explosive athlete with a quick first step and the ability to finish at the rim. Smith is also a capable playmaker, able to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. However, his outside shooting and decision-making are areas that need improvement. While he has the potential to be a valuable contributor at the NBA level, his inconsistency may make him a riskier pick for the Pelicans at 21 in this mock draft.
Zach Edey (Purdue): Zach Edey is a massive center with a 7’4″ frame and a soft touch around the basket. He is a dominant force in the paint, using his size and strength to score and rebound at a high rate. Edey’s presence in the paint would provide the Pelicans with a much-needed interior presence on both ends of the floor. However, his lack of lateral quickness and perimeter skills may limit his effectiveness in the modern NBA. Additionally, his fit with the New Orleans Pelicans’ current frontcourt, which includes Zion Williamson and Jonas Valanciunas, is questionable.
Carlton Carrington (Pitt): Carlton Carrington is a versatile forward with a well-rounded skill set. He can score from all three levels, rebound, and defend multiple positions. Carrington’s basketball IQ and feel for the game are among his greatest strengths, allowing him to make an impact on both ends of the floor. However, his lack of elite athleticism and explosiveness may limit his upside at the NBA level. While Carrington would be a solid addition to the Pelicans, there may be higher-upside options available at the 21st pick.
Kyshawn George (Miami): Kyshawn George is a high-energy guard with a strong defensive presence. He is an aggressive on-ball defender and has the lateral quickness to stay in front of his man. George also has a solid outside shot and can knock down open threes. However, his offensive game is somewhat limited, as he is not a great playmaker and struggles to create his own shot off the dribble. While his defensive abilities are valuable, the New Orleans Pelicans may be looking for a more well-rounded player at the 21st pick.
Kel’el Ware (IU): Kel’el Ware is a long, athletic forward with a lot of potential on both ends of the floor. He is a strong finisher at the rim and has shown flashes of a developing outside shot. Ware’s length and athleticism also make him a capable defender and shot-blocker. However, his game is still raw, and he needs to improve his consistency and decision-making. While Ware has a high upside, the Pelicans may be looking for a more polished player at the 21st pick.
Kyle Filipowski (Duke): Kyle Filipowski is a skilled big man with a versatile offensive game. He can score from the post, knock down mid-range jumpers, and has shown the ability to stretch the floor with his outside shot. Filipowski is also a capable rebounder and defender. However, his lack of elite athleticism and lateral quickness may limit his effectiveness at the NBA level. While Filipowski would provide the Pelicans with a skilled big man, there may be other players with higher upsides available at the 21st pick.
After careful consideration of the Pelicans’ needs and the available options, Terrence Shannon from Illinois appears to be the best choice at the 21st pick. His combination of athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive potential make him a valuable addition to the Pelicans roster. While there are other intriguing options, Shannon’s well-rounded game and potential to contribute immediately make him the most attractive choice for the New Orleans Pelicans in the 2024 NBA Draft.
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