NBA Free Agency: 5 best fits for Joakim Noah

Apr 16, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap (4) looks to pass the ball back inbound against the Boston Celtics during the first half in game one of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 12, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis (23) drives against Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah (13) during the second half at the United Center. Chicago won 98-94. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports /

3. New Orleans Pelicans

The New Orleans Pelicans were one of the most disappointing teams last season, missing the playoffs entirely with a 30-52 record one year removed from earning a postseason berth as an eighth seed.

Superstar Anthony Davis was unable to reach the astronomical expectations experts set for him heading into his fourth season in the NBA. However, Davis did average a more than respectable 24.3 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks last season before suffering a season-ending left knee injury in March.

While “The Brow” was unable to elevate his game to a completely new level, he is still the undisputed best power forward in the game today. The true lesson to be learned from last season, which saw Davis drop 59 points and 20 rebounds in a single game, is that he can’t do it all himself.

One spot the Pelicans desperately need to upgrade is the center position next to Davis. Omer Asik and Alexis Ajinca are both career backups and will never be able to help the Pelicans reach the next level.

Noah, a two-time All-star, is an instant upgrade at the “5” and can also serve as an enforcer for a young team still learning how to win in the rugged Western Conference.

Next: 2. New York Knicks

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