New Orleans Pelicans: 5 players who need to step up with DeMarcus Cousins injured

2. Cheick Diallo, PF

Depth at the center position is not a strength of the New Orleans Pelicans. Unfortunately, it’ll be tough to find help and at the moment, they’ll have to deal with being undersized at that spot. In comes Cheick Diallo. Diallo is listed as a 6’9″ power forward. For all intents and purposes, he is now a 6’9″ center. Welcome to the rigors of the NBA. Who ever said managing a roster was easy?

At just 21 years old, Diallo now finds himself in his biggest role yet, holding the fort down for the Pelicans alongside Omer Asik until NOLA finds a way to get some help. Just like Asik, the Pelicans won’t demand Diallo to be Superman. Instead, just play the role assigned to him and contribute wherever and however he can.

Overall, the biggest stat they’ll need Diallo to fill is in the rebounding category. The Pelicans as a whole will need to develop a mindset where everyone helps on the boards. If Diallo adds points and blocks, he’ll get even more praise. But the biggest thing here is that Diallo just contributes and stays true to who he is as a player.