New Orleans Pelicans: 3 trades team should make before deadline

2. Kent Bazemore

Sometimes, the right big move doesn’t have to necessarily involve a big-name player. The answer to the Pelicans’ woes at the wing could be solved with the right role player.

The Atlanta Hawks have made it well known to the league that Kent Bazemore is available for trade. Bazemore may not have the name recognition of other players available on the trade block, but could prove to be a big step in the right direction for the Pelicans.

In his fifth season with the Hawks, he is putting up the best numbers of his career. In his 27.4 minutes a night, he is averaging 14.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.7 steals and 0.9 blocks per game. He isn’t anything special in terms of deep threat potential, but he is good for 1.5 3s a game at 32.7 percent. However, he is shooting 40 percent on corner 3s.

What he lacks in range he makes up for in athleticism and defensive quickness. Bazemore has a knack for on-ball defense and is tied for 10th in the league in steals. Bringing the swingman aboard would provide a little extra athleticism and lineup versatility for head coach Alvin Gentry.

The ceiling for an addition of Kent Bazemore may not be as high as trading for a player like Porter, but would definitely be a less costly move to make. It is likely that the inclusion of a first round pick would be required, but the Pelicans could also shed a little unwanted salary in Hill. Bazemore has a player option next season for just over $19 million, so this move also wouldn’t tie up long-term money beyond 2019-20.