Q: Is Zion Williamson off our board? – Andy.
A: First, it’s not as if the Pelicans ever formally had Zion Williamson on the trade market, going as far as to have him represent the team at last month’s draft lottery. And the current case that has come to light is a civil case, not a criminal case. But, yes, figure on all the personnel speculation regarding Zion to be tabled for a while. As it is, injuries and availability created pause, anyway, with the situation at the moment practically toxic from a personnel standpoint. If not for these latest allegations, the thought was Zion very much could be in play in light of the Pelicans’ makeover of their front office and seeming desire for a fresh start.
Q: Ira, when you mention the Heat’s future and youth, you always start with Kel’el Ware, Nikola Jovic and Jaime Jaquez Jr. Why not Pelle Larsson? He’s exactly the type of player we need. – Wes.
A: Because you tend to start with those that have arrived with significant investment, in the case of Kel’el Ware, Nikola Jovic and Jaime Jaquez Jr.. with the investment of first-round selection. But you are correct that by the end of this past season, Pelle Larsson had not only moved ahead of Jaime in the rotation, but also had several impactful moments. Like so many in his situation, Pelle would be boosted to another level if he comes around with his shot (which also is the reason that Jaime has fallen). Plus, for all of Pelle’s defensive moxie, the fouls have to come down, as well. But, yes, Pelle, especially because of his economical contract, deserves consideration in any discussion of the Heat’s youth. There is potential there for so much more.
Q: The only way it makes sense to bring back Alec Burks is if Duncan Robinson is traded. – Jay.
A: But it’s also not that simple, with the start of free agency potentially to precede a possible timeline for a Duncan Robinson trade (or the release of Robinson to save $10 million against the cap and tax). Plus, this team hardly is in a position where it can afford to squander any potential boost to its shooting. At this stage, Alec Burks as 15th man would make more sense than Kevin Love, albeit with Love under contract for another season. Alec Burks at the minimum makes sense in any scenario.