Naji Marshall thriving for Western Conference foe after free agency botch
Say hello to Naji Marshall. Unfamiliar to the casual NBA fan, insiders and diehard fans know Marshall well. In his four seasons with New Orleans to start his career, the wingman averaged eight points and four rebounds, shooting 43 percent (31 percent from three).
In that time, Marshall secured an important role on an often-injured team, earning crucial playing time for four years (averaging 20 minutes per game with the Pelicans). That role, despite a small sample size, earned him a nice check.
Last offseason, the Dallas Mavericks were able to secure a three-year, $27 million contract with Marshall. In bringing him to Dallas, a breakout season was set to transpire for the squad. He exceeded expectations, with a career-best season.
The unexpected contributor averaged 13 points, five rebounds, three assists, and one steal, shooting 50 percent (28 percent on threes). His March was his best, averaging 20 points, seven rebounds, and four assists, shooting 54 percent in 16 games.
Trading Brandon Ingram for two role players remains a debatable move
The latest of these moves occurred this season, when the team shipped him to Toronto. Heading into the year, the team and Ingram failed to finalize negotiations on a contract extension, ultimately leading to his departure from New Orleans.
As a result, the team acquired two veterans (Bruce Brown and Kelly Olynyk) and draft assets. But the deal feels like a major fail on the part of the organization. After averaging at least 20 points each of the last six seasons (all in New Orleans), Ingram is gone.
The Raptors secured an extension with Ingram immediately after the deal, while New Orleans let its biggest chip remaining from the Anthony Davis trade go. Now, the Pelicans must pick up the scraps and finish retooling for next season, with one of their leading scorers gone.
Even though value was secured for Ingram, they poorly assessed his value, ultimately losing any leverage with him on an expiring contract. If the team knew the end was near, Ingram should've been traded long ago.
The constant hit-or-miss transactions by the Pelicans could force them to say goodbye to their franchise star. With the lack of success after each acquisition, it may be time to hit the reset button for everyone in New Orleans. So get ready for Mardi Gras, Pels fans; it may be all the fun that's left.