1. New Orleans Pelicans
How about a familiar trade partner. The New Orleans Pelicans are slated to possibly lose both veteran centers they have in Derrick Favors and Jahlil Okafor. They have a young talented center in Jaxson Hayes still on the roster.
But having a veteran player in McGee to help mentor is never a bad idea. The team could use his presence as well on defense and on the glass. He is also familiar with quite a few players on the roster, playing with them with the Lakers.
Ball has been very inconsistent in his career, but has shown he can do well with an athletic center. The way he played down the stretch with New Orleans is a huge boost. He sees the court very well and has great passing abilities.
With Brandon Ingram set to sign a max extension. The Pelicans could look to go cheaper alternative options at the center position. Okafor’s market could be up-and-down but Favors should attract more than $4.2 million on his next deal.
Wishful thinking but maybe Pelinka asks about a pick or a swap they sent to New Orleans in the AD trade. Also, New Orleans has a ton of second-round picks at their disposal.