As the New Orleans Pelicans approach the final stretch of their season, it's time to assess the performances across their roster. While there have been some exciting highlights, including promising rookies and a healthy Zion Williamson, Herb Jones' season has raised some eyebrows.
Jones, who recently inked a three-year, $67.5 million extension, has seen his performance dip significantly. At 27, he's posting career-low shooting numbers and struggling from beyond the arc, hitting less than 30 percent of his threes. Even his trademark defensive prowess has shown signs of decline.
This situation puts the Pelicans in a tough spot as they consider their options moving forward. With Jones' current form and the emergence of Saddiq Bey as a viable wing option, the team's need for Jones has diminished. It’s a challenging scenario for fans, especially after the emotional departure of Jose Alvarado at the trade deadline.
At the start of the season, the Pelicans seemed set with Trey Murphy III and Jones as their wing anchors. While the future of those positions still looks bright, it might not feature Jones as prominently as once thought. Bey and Murphy III are now poised to take the reins.
Many hold out hope that Jones can rebound, attributing his struggles to recent injuries. However, the Pelicans' front office faces a critical decision: Is it worth the gamble to give Jones another season to regain his form? If his performance remains stagnant or injuries persist, the team could find itself with a nearly 30-year-old player on a hefty contract, which could hinder future flexibility.
The Pelicans are navigating a delicate situation with Jones' future in New Orleans. They missed an opportunity to trade him when his value was higher, and now they face a pivotal offseason decision. How they handle Jones' situation could significantly impact the franchise's trajectory moving forward.