Pelicans Reject Lakers’ Pursuit of Jones Amid Trade Speculation
The New Orleans Pelicans find themselves in a difficult position with a dismal 3-22 record this season, prompting rampant speculation regarding potential roster changes ahead of the trade deadline. Names like Zion Williamson, Jordan Poole, Herb Jones, and Jose Alvarado have been swirling in trade rumors as the team seeks a clearer direction for the future. However, one fan-favorite player, Herb Jones, is unlikely to be part of any roster shakeup in the near term.
Lakers Eye Jones to Bolster Defense
A recent rumor indicated that the Los Angeles Lakers were considering a move for Jones to enhance their defensive capabilities during their pursuit of a championship this season. With a strong start at 17-7, placing them fourth in the Western Conference, the Lakers are in a position to contend. A versatile 3&D defender like Jones could be the perfect addition to complement their already potent offense.
However, a report from Dan Woike suggests that the Pelicans are firmly opposed to trading Jones. Woike notes that while Lakers fans may dream of a major overhaul of the struggling Pelicans’ roster, the team has no interest in moving the talented forward. The report elaborates that the Pelicans’ asking price is high, with a single first-round pick and expiring contracts unlikely to entice them.
Valuation of Herb Jones
The Pelicans’ reluctance to part with Jones underscores how highly they regard the young defender. Drafted in the second round of the 2021 NBA Draft, Jones quickly made a name for himself in New Orleans. During his rookie year, he started 69 games and earned NBA Second-Team All-Rookie honors, averaging 9.7 points and 1.7 steals per game. His impact on both ends of the court became even more pronounced in his third season, where he not only secured a spot on the All-NBA Defensive First Team but also shot a career-best 41% from three-point range.
This past offseason, the Pelicans rewarded Jones with a three-year, $68 million extension, solidifying his status as one of the best team-friendly deals in the league. With a fully guaranteed contract, Jones’ ability to transform games defensively while improving his shooting makes him a valuable asset at under $25 million per season.
For any team to acquire Jones, they would likely need to offer multiple first-round picks or a young player of significant impact, a steep price that may be beyond the reach of the Lakers at this time.
Pelicans Committed to Their Core
The Pelicans’ firm stance on retaining Jones suggests that despite the challenges of the current season, they are not ready to abandon their long-term vision. The franchise appears committed to building around its core, with Jones being a pivotal part of their future plans. As the trade deadline approaches, it’s clear that New Orleans is not just looking for immediate fixes but is instead focused on fostering the growth of their most promising talents.
