New Orleans Pelicans: 5 free agent targets to pair with Zion Williamson

New Orleans Pelicans targets in 2021 NBA Free Agency: 2. Lonzo Ball

Among the many free-agent targets that the Pelicans should look to pair with Williamson this offseason, perhaps the most reasonable is already on their roster in Lonzo Ball.

Ball had a career year in New Orleans by averaging 14.6 points while shooting 41.4 percent from the floor and a much-improved 37.8 percent from deep. All three categories were career-highs for the fourth-year guard, and reports suggest that he is looking to be compensated handsomely for his improved efforts.

According to The Athletic’s Sam Amick (subscription required), Ball could be seeking up to $20 million annually on his next deal, which would be a steep price to pay for the guard. Yet, the Pelicans will have the opportunity to match any deal offered to Ball by opposing teams as he is restricted, and his fit with Williamson might make that an easier decision.

In addition to Williamson publicly backing his teammate by saying, “I really would want Zo to come back, and he knows that,” the two have a special connection out on the floor. Lonzo’s playmaking has created some highlight-reel-worthy plays involving Williamson’s thunderous dunks during their short time together, and it is clear that the two fit very well together. With his 3-point shot looking better also, keeping the 23-year-old around to continue growing alongside this young core seems like a justifiable move.