Pelicans Draft 2021: Who Did They Pick?

Hey Pelicans fans! Let's dive deep into the New Orleans Pelicans' 2021 draft, reliving the excitement and analyzing how those picks have shaped the team. The NBA draft is always a pivotal moment for any franchise, offering the chance to inject fresh talent and address key needs. For the Pelicans, the 2021 draft was particularly significant as they looked to build around their young core and make a serious push in the competitive Western Conference.

The Pelicans' Draft Strategy

In 2021, the New Orleans Pelicans entered the draft with a clear mission: to add players who could complement Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. Their strategy focused on identifying prospects with high upside, defensive versatility, and the ability to contribute both on and off the ball. The Pelicans' front office, led by General Manager Trajan Langdon, aimed to strike a balance between immediate impact and long-term potential. They scouted players meticulously, evaluating their skills, athleticism, and basketball IQ. This comprehensive approach allowed them to make informed decisions and select players who fit their vision for the team.

Identifying Team Needs

Before the draft, the Pelicans pinpointed several key areas that needed improvement. First and foremost, they sought to bolster their perimeter defense. The team had struggled to contain opposing guards and wings, leading to defensive breakdowns and easy scoring opportunities for their opponents. Adding a versatile defender who could guard multiple positions was a top priority. Secondly, the Pelicans aimed to improve their three-point shooting. While they had some capable shooters on the roster, they lacked consistent outside threats who could space the floor and create driving lanes for Zion and Ingram. Identifying players with a proven track record of three-point accuracy was crucial. Lastly, the Pelicans looked to add depth to their frontcourt. With questions surrounding the long-term fit of some of their existing big men, they wanted to bring in a young, promising prospect who could develop into a reliable contributor off the bench. This would provide insurance in case of injuries and allow them to experiment with different lineup combinations.

Pre-Draft Workouts and Evaluations

The Pelicans conducted numerous pre-draft workouts and evaluations to get a closer look at the top prospects. These workouts provided an opportunity to assess players' skills, athleticism, and overall fit with the team's system. The coaching staff, led by head coach Willie Green, played an active role in the evaluation process, providing input on players' potential roles and contributions. The Pelicans also delved into players' backgrounds, conducting interviews and gathering information on their character, work ethic, and leadership qualities. This thorough approach ensured that they were not only selecting talented players but also individuals who would be a good fit for the team's culture. The Pelicans prioritized players who were coachable, willing to learn, and committed to improving their game. This emphasis on character and work ethic reflected the team's desire to build a cohesive and resilient roster.

The 2021 Draft Selections

Alright, let's get to the juicy details! The Pelicans had a few picks in the 2021 draft, and here’s a breakdown of who they selected and what they brought to the table:

First Round, 17th Overall: Trey Murphy III

The Pelicans selected Trey Murphy III from the University of Virginia with the 17th overall pick. This pick was all about potential and fit. Murphy brought exactly what the Pelicans were looking for: elite three-point shooting and defensive versatility. At 6'9", he has the size to guard multiple positions and the athleticism to keep up with quicker players. His ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc makes him a perfect complement to Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, as he spaces the floor and forces defenses to respect his range. Murphy's selection was widely praised by analysts, who saw him as a player with a high floor and significant upside. His combination of shooting, defense, and athleticism made him an ideal fit for the Pelicans' system. Over time, Murphy has shown flashes of brilliance, proving to be a valuable asset off the bench and even stepping into the starting lineup when needed. His development has been a key factor in the Pelicans' improved performance in recent seasons.

Second Round, 35th Overall: Herb Jones

With the 35th overall pick, the Pelicans landed Herb Jones from the University of Alabama. If the Murphy pick was about potential, this one was about value. Jones quickly became a fan favorite due to his tenacious defense and high motor. Jones is a defensive pest, capable of guarding multiple positions with his length, quickness, and relentless effort. He's the kind of player who makes winning plays that don't always show up in the box score. His selection was initially met with some skepticism, as some analysts questioned his offensive potential. However, Jones quickly proved his doubters wrong, showcasing a willingness to learn and improve his game. He has worked tirelessly to develop his offensive skills, becoming a more reliable scorer and playmaker. His defensive prowess and offensive development have made him an integral part of the Pelicans' rotation. Jones' impact extends beyond the court, as he is known for his positive attitude, leadership qualities, and commitment to the community. He embodies the values that the Pelicans are trying to build, making him a valuable asset both on and off the court.

Undrafted Free Agent: Naji Marshall

Okay, so technically not a draft pick, but Naji Marshall signed with the Pelicans as an undrafted free agent and has become a key part of their rotation. He brings energy, toughness, and versatility to the team. Marshall is a versatile player who can contribute in a variety of ways. He is a capable scorer, rebounder, and defender, making him a valuable asset off the bench. His energy and hustle are infectious, and he often sparks the team with his play. Marshall's journey to the NBA is a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and dedication. He overcame numerous obstacles to reach his dream, and his story serves as an inspiration to aspiring basketball players. His contributions to the Pelicans have been invaluable, and he has become a fan favorite due to his relentless effort and positive attitude. He embodies the spirit of the team and is a key part of their success.

How the Picks Have Performed

So, how did these picks pan out? Let's break it down:

Trey Murphy III: A Sharpshooting Threat

Trey Murphy III has developed into a reliable sharpshooter and valuable role player for the Pelicans. His ability to stretch the floor and knock down three-pointers has been a major asset to the team's offense. He has also shown improvement on the defensive end, becoming a more versatile and reliable defender. Murphy's growth has been steady and consistent, and he is poised to become an even more important player for the Pelicans in the future. His shooting ability, defensive versatility, and overall improvement have made him a valuable asset to the team's success. He is a key part of their young core and is expected to play a major role in their future.

Herb Jones: The Defensive Anchor

Herb Jones has exceeded all expectations and established himself as one of the league's premier defenders. His ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt opposing offenses has been a game-changer for the Pelicans. He has also shown significant improvement on the offensive end, becoming a more reliable scorer and playmaker. Jones' defensive prowess and offensive development have made him an indispensable part of the team. His impact extends beyond the court, as he is known for his leadership qualities and commitment to the community. He embodies the values that the Pelicans are trying to build, making him a valuable asset both on and off the court. He is a fan favorite and a key part of the team's success.

Naji Marshall: The Undrafted Gem

Naji Marshall has proven to be a valuable addition to the Pelicans' roster, providing energy, toughness, and versatility off the bench. His ability to contribute in a variety of ways has made him a reliable option for coach Willie Green. Marshall's journey to the NBA is a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and dedication. He overcame numerous obstacles to reach his dream, and his story serves as an inspiration to aspiring basketball players. His contributions to the Pelicans have been invaluable, and he has become a fan favorite due to his relentless effort and positive attitude. He embodies the spirit of the team and is a key part of their success.

Final Thoughts on the 2021 Draft

Overall, the New Orleans Pelicans' 2021 draft can be considered a major success. They addressed their needs by selecting players who fit their system and have contributed to the team's growth. Trey Murphy III has become a reliable sharpshooter, Herb Jones has emerged as a defensive stopper, and Naji Marshall has provided valuable energy and versatility. These picks have not only improved the team's on-court performance but have also added to the team's culture and identity. The Pelicans' front office deserves credit for their thorough evaluation process and their ability to identify talent that fits their vision. The 2021 draft class has played a significant role in the Pelicans' recent success and has positioned them for a bright future. As these players continue to develop and improve, the Pelicans will be a force to be reckoned with in the Western Conference for years to come. The team's commitment to building a strong foundation through the draft has paid off, and they are well-positioned to compete for championships in the future.

So there you have it, folks! The 2021 draft was a pivotal moment for the Pelicans, and it's clear that they made some smart choices. These players have become integral parts of the team, and their continued development will be crucial to the Pelicans' success in the years to come. What are your thoughts on the Pelicans' 2021 draft class? Let us know in the comments below!