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New Orleans Pelicans: Grading The Offseason

By Gerald Bourguet

Apr 25, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis (23) reacts after a score by the Golden State Warriors during the fourth quarter in game four of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at the Smoothie King Center. The Warriors defeated the Pelicans 109-98. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 25, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis (23) reacts after a score by the Golden State Warriors during the fourth quarter in game four of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at the Smoothie King Center. The Warriors defeated the Pelicans 109-98. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /
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New Orleans Pelicans
Mar 19, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Dante Cunningham (44) against the Phoenix Suns at US Airways Center. The Suns defeated the Pelicans 74-72. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Keeping Cunningham

After joining the New Orleans Pelicans last season, Dante Cunningham averaged 5.2 points and 3.9 rebounds in 25 minutes per game. Though the 6’8″ forward doesn’t have a three-point shot, he brings defensive toughness and can knock down midrange jumpers.

For three years and $9 million, Gentry will have another option at small forward if Babbitt doesn’t pan out. He didn’t blow anyone away last year, but he was also a midseason addition who was quickly thrust into a starting role.

That won’t be the case next season, but Cunningham could be a useful player in spot minutes and his deal is completely manageable. This is yet another deal that reiterates the front office’s commitment to keeping the band together for another go-round under a new head coach.

Grade: C+

Next: Gee, What A Nice Addition

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