The trade deadline has come and gone, and David Griffin, Trajan Langdon, and the New Orleans Pelicans front office largely stood pat. The only move recorded was sending JJ Redick and Nicolo Melli to Dallas for James Johnson, Wesley Iwundu, and the Mavericks’ 2021 2nd round pick. Thus begins, in earnest, the Lonzo Ball restricted free agency watch. Additionally, Josh Hart will be a restricted free agent while newly acquired James Johnson joins Willy Hernangomez as pending unrestricted free agents.
Where should New Orleans go from here? First, let’s dispel some of the unfounded theories. Gayle Benson has shown a willingness to spend on this franchise.