5 Jarrett Allen trades that get Cavaliers closer to title contention
By Tyler Watts
2. Pelicans trade two key pieces to get Jarrett Allen
The Pelicans need to figure out what to do long-term at the five. Jonas Valanciunas is entering the final year of his contract, and New Orleans has to decide between extending or trading him this summer. Do the Pelicans want a more traditional center to pair with Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson? If so, they could take a swing on Jarrett Allen.
Murphy III had a breakout second season in New Orleans where he became a starter and 30-minute per game option. The 6’9 forward shot over 40 percent from 3-point range and continues to improve on the defensive end of the floor. He could be the dynamic wing that Cleveland needs next to Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland.
Jonas Valanciunas is an underrated floor spacer and rebounder that could fit well next to Evan Mobley in Cleveland. The Cavaliers would get one season to test that partnership before committing to JV long-term.
The Pelicans get their starting center of the present and future in this win-win trade. Would New Orleans be willing to give up Trey Murphy III for the All-Star big man? That is an unknown, but it is worth the Cleveland Cavaliers exploring.