Pelicans Face Expansion Draft Dilemma: Who's Safe and Who's Not?
As the NBA buzzes with expansion rumors, New Orleans Pelicans fans are left wondering how their team might be impacted. The potential addition of franchises in Las Vegas and Seattle could shake up the league's landscape, particularly for Western Conference teams. While the Pelicans aren't the frontrunners to switch conferences, they're certainly part of the conversation.
However, the most pressing concern for New Orleans is the looming expansion draft. When the league expands, each new team will select 15 players from existing rosters, with current teams allowed to protect only eight players. This forces teams like the Pelicans to make tough decisions, balancing established talent with promising young stars.
If the draft were to happen this offseason, the Pelicans might choose to protect:
- Trey Murphy
- Herb Jones
- Jeremiah Fears
- Derik Queen
- Zion Williamson
- Dejounte Murray
- Saddiq Bey
- Yves Missi
This protection list leaves players like Jordan Poole, Bryce McGowens, Jordan Hawkins, and Micah Peavy exposed. For the Pelicans, losing Poole could be seen as a financial relief due to his hefty contract, but losing a developing talent like Peavy would sting.
In a recent mock expansion draft by Bleacher Report's Andy Bailey, an unexpected twist saw Seattle selecting Karlo Matkovic with the 16th pick. Matkovic, a fan favorite in New Orleans, has averaged 5.7 points and 3.7 rebounds over 61 games this season. Known for his athleticism and potential to stretch the floor, Matkovic is on a $2.3 million club option, making him a candidate for an extension.
While losing Matkovic would be bittersweet for the Pelicans, it presents a significant opportunity for him to shine in a new setting. As the expansion draft looms, New Orleans must weigh their options carefully, balancing the future of their roster with immediate needs.