5 roster moves the New Orleans Pelicans need to make this offseason

Apr 28, 2022; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) during warm ups before game six against the Phoenix Suns of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports /

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Apr 26, 2022; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Naji Marshall (8) drives to the basket against Phoenix Suns guard Landry Shamet (14) and Cameron Johnson in the first half during game five of the first round for the 2022 NBA playoffs at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

5 roster moves the New Orleans Pelicans need to make this offseason: 4. Guarantee Naji Marshall

The Pelicans’ starting unit is pretty much set, with Valanciunas, Williamson, Ingram, McCollum, and Devonte’ Graham. This is going to be able to compete with any starting unit in the league. However, it is the depth of a bench unit that usually defines how far a team will go in the postseason.

The Pelicans have $141.1 million of committed salary on their books. As a team that has not been in contention for a deep playoff run, the Pelicans would most probably not be that happy going into the luxury tax just yet. If they had a couple of seasons at the top of the league, then they would be looking to sign a player to push them over the edge.

Naji Marshall is only due $1.7 million next season. This would keep the core of the Pelicans together so that they can grow, especially when they get their superstar back from injury next season. Marshall will not see a huge amount of court time behind Ingram so this cost seems about right.

If Marshall does not work out when the full roster is back on the floor then the Pelicans can trade his contract. Failing that they can simply not guarantee him next season and move on.

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