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NBA Free Agency 2017: 5 offseason needs for the New Orleans Pelicans

By Jason Klaer

March 5, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward DeMarcus Cousins (0) grabs a rebound in front of Los Angeles Lakers center Tarik Black (28) during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
March 5, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward DeMarcus Cousins (0) grabs a rebound in front of Los Angeles Lakers center Tarik Black (28) during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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Although New Orleans was active at the trade deadline, the franchise continues to struggle in the competitive Western Conference. Here are their five biggest needs heading into the offseason.

Once again, the Pelicans failed to reach the NBA Playoffs. Two months ago, New Orleans acquired DeMarcus Cousins from the Sacramento Kings, one of the biggest trade deadline deals ever. Cousins was brought out of a toxic relationship with Sacramento and given a fresh start. It wasn’t enough to save the Pelicans’ season.

For the second consecutive year, the Pelicans were left out of the playoff picture. Following the 2017-18 season, Cousins is a unrestricted free agent. Will New Orleans push to retain him? Looking ahead, the Pelicans will have several decisions to make as the franchise decides what direction to go in the upcoming seasons. Here’s what they need to get done right away.

5. Re-sign Jrue Holiday

Recently, Holiday finished his fourth and final year of his initial contract with New Orleans. To say the least, Holiday has been the one and only productive guard for the Pelicans. Although he missed the first handful of games, Holiday picked up where he left off. He averaged 15.4 points per game while also dishing out over seven assists per contest. New Orleans needs offensive production outside of the paint. Holiday offers this and more but questions loom whether he may walk away for other opportunities.

In the meantime, general manager Dell Demps can push for Holiday to stay. However, with the focus mainly on the big men, Holiday may feel left out. His turnovers per game (2.9) negatively impact New Orleans’ offense. On the other hand, his ability to handle the ball truly adds a different dimension to the offensive flow.

Regardless of the contract and money, it would be in the Pelican’s best interest to bring back Holiday for a fifth season. Even if it comes down to spending a little extra money on Holiday, the investment will pay its dividends. Yes, Anthony Davis and Cousins are two of the most talented big men in the game, but the offensive attack must be balanced. Overall, Holiday’s absence would cause an immediate impact in a negative manner.

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