Dec 2, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Ryan Anderson (33) drives the ball during the fourth quarter against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. The Rockets defeated the Pelicans 108-101. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Ryan Anderson on the Move?
The Pelicans are officially in panic mode. Much like Houston, New Orleans will be looking to shake things up before it gets too late. Trade rumors surrounding Anderson’s availability have recently surfaced (story here), and it appears the deep shooting big man will be the first to move.
New Orleans already has over 35 million dollars invested in their front court for next year, so it is hard to imagine they will match the big offer Anderson is in line to receive. Couple that with the slow start, and you have a prime opportunity for trade exploitation.
Anderson is the player the Trail Blazers want Meyers Leonard to be. Portland could put together a package of draft considerations and a back court player to entice New Orleans. A trade would also give the Pelicans a chance to unload a less desirable contract onto the Trail Blazers. It is easy to forecast success for Anderson in a Terry Stotts system.
We are already past the quarter mark in the season, so expect the trade rumors to heat up. The good news for Portland is that we have Neil Olshey in our corner. Let the games begin.