Potential Fire Sales Worth Watching
Dec 25, 2015; Miami, FL, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Ryan Anderson (33) drives to the basket against Miami Heat forward Chris Bosh (1) in the first half of a NBA basketball game on Christmas at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
The New Orleans Pelicans
The Pelicans struggles have been well documented so far this season. It is shocking that the talent rich squad has only managed to go 9-20 to start the season. This is unacceptable for a roster that contains one of the most talented players in the league (Anthony Davis).
It already appears that the Pelicans are willing to make moves in attempt to get things headed in the right direction. They recently traded Ish Smith to the 76ers (story here), and there have been several rumors regarding Ryan Anderson‘s availability. Could the Trail Blazers cash in on the desperation coming out of New Orleans?
Potential Trade Parts:
Eric Gordon – Gordon is heading into the final year of his contract, and it appears unlikely that the Pelicans will attempt to resign him. The shooting guard carries a lofty 15.5 million dollar price tag, thus making his trade suitor list a small one. It might be worth a shot for the Trail Blazers to try out Gordon for the rest of the season. Gordon would provide another long range shooting threat off of the Portland bench.
Omer Asik – The Pelicans could look to free up long term flexibility by trading the high priced Asik. While offensively limited, Asik does possess the rim protection the Trail Blazers are lacking. The biggest problem is the big man is signed through 2020 on a 10+ million dollar deal. If Neil Olshey brought him in it would hopefully come with some draft picks as well.
Toney Douglas – If New Orleans goes looking for youth it could leave Douglas with out a home. This would be a pure depth move for the Trail Blazers.