Pelicans' 2023 Draft Picks: Who They Chose

The New Orleans Pelicans entered the 2023 NBA Draft with a keen eye on bolstering their roster. The draft, held on June 22, 2023, was an opportunity for the Pelicans to add young talent and address specific needs within their team composition. For fans and analysts alike, the draft is always a moment of excitement and speculation, wondering which players will become the future stars of their favorite teams. Let's dive into who the Pelicans selected and what these new additions could bring to the Big Easy.

Pelicans' Draft Strategy

Before we get into the specific picks, let’s consider the Pelicans' overall draft strategy. Heading into the draft, the Pelicans had several areas they were likely looking to improve. One key area was three-point shooting. In the modern NBA, spacing the floor and having reliable shooters is crucial for offensive success. The Pelicans needed players who could knock down shots consistently to complement their existing stars like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. Another area of focus was defensive versatility. Being able to switch on defense and guard multiple positions is a valuable asset, especially in the playoffs. The Pelicans needed players who could contribute on the defensive end and help shore up their team defense.

Depth at the guard positions was also a consideration. Adding depth to the guard rotation would provide more options for the coaching staff and ensure that the team could withstand injuries and maintain a high level of play throughout the season. Moreover, the Pelicans may have been looking for players with high basketball IQ and strong work ethics. These intangible qualities can be just as important as physical talent, as they contribute to a player's development and their ability to fit into a team-oriented environment. Ultimately, the Pelicans' draft strategy aimed to identify players who could contribute to the team's long-term success, both on and off the court.

First Round Selection

With their first-round pick, the New Orleans Pelicans selected Jordan Hawkins from UConn. This pick was met with considerable excitement, as Hawkins is widely regarded as one of the best shooters in the draft class. During his time at UConn, Hawkins demonstrated an impressive ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc, making him a perfect fit for a Pelicans team that needed more reliable three-point shooting.

Hawkins' shooting prowess is not his only asset. He also possesses a strong work ethic and a willingness to improve, which are qualities that the Pelicans value highly. His ability to move without the ball and find open spots on the floor makes him a valuable offensive weapon. Defensively, Hawkins is known for his effort and willingness to compete, although he will need to continue to develop his strength and defensive technique to become a more complete player. Overall, the selection of Jordan Hawkins addresses a key need for the Pelicans and provides them with a player who has the potential to become a valuable contributor for years to come. The Pelicans are banking on Hawkins' shooting ability to translate to the NBA level and provide the spacing that their star players need to operate effectively. His arrival could significantly improve the team's offensive efficiency and make them a more dangerous opponent.

Second Round Selection

In the second round, the Pelicans chose Emoni Bates. Emoni Bates' journey to the NBA has been one of high expectations and considerable scrutiny. Once hailed as a potential generational talent, Bates faced various challenges during his high school and college career. However, the Pelicans saw potential in Bates' undeniable talent and decided to take a chance on him in the second round. At his best, Bates is a dynamic scorer with the ability to create his own shot and knock down jumpers from anywhere on the court.

His offensive skillset is what intrigued the Pelicans, who believe that with the right development and support, Bates can become a valuable contributor off the bench. Of course, there are questions about Bates' consistency and decision-making. He will need to improve his shot selection and become a more efficient scorer to succeed in the NBA. Defensively, Bates will also need to put in the work to become a reliable defender. However, the Pelicans are willing to be patient with Bates and provide him with the resources he needs to develop into a well-rounded player. This pick represents a calculated risk for the Pelicans, but if Bates can reach his potential, it could pay off handsomely.

Undrafted Free Agents

After the draft concluded, the Pelicans moved quickly to sign several undrafted free agents. These players, while not selected during the draft, still possess the potential to contribute to the team in various ways. Undrafted free agents often bring a unique combination of skills and determination, as they have had to overcome the disappointment of not being drafted and prove themselves through hard work and perseverance. The Pelicans have had success with undrafted players in the past, and they are always on the lookout for hidden gems who can make an impact. These players are often signed to Exhibit 10 contracts, which allow them to participate in training camp and compete for a roster spot.

Exhibit 10 contracts also provide the Pelicans with the flexibility to assign these players to their G League affiliate, the Birmingham Squadron, where they can continue to develop and gain valuable experience. Some of the undrafted free agents signed by the Pelicans in 2023 included [mention specific names if available], each of whom brings a unique set of skills to the table. These players will have the opportunity to showcase their abilities during training camp and preseason games, and if they impress the coaching staff, they could earn a spot on the Pelicans' regular season roster. The Pelicans' willingness to give undrafted players a chance is a testament to their commitment to finding talent wherever it may be and developing players from within.

Overall Draft Grade and Analysis

So, how did the Pelicans do overall in the 2023 NBA Draft? Well, assessing a team's draft performance is always a tricky task, as it takes time to see how the selected players develop and contribute to the team. However, based on the available information and expert analysis, we can offer a preliminary assessment of the Pelicans' draft. The selection of Jordan Hawkins in the first round was widely praised, as he addresses a clear need for the team and has the potential to become a valuable offensive weapon.

Hawkins' shooting ability is a valuable asset in today's NBA, and his work ethic and willingness to improve are also encouraging signs. The Pelicans' decision to take a chance on Emoni Bates in the second round was more of a gamble, but it could pay off if Bates can reach his potential. Bates possesses undeniable talent, and the Pelicans are willing to provide him with the resources he needs to develop. The signing of several undrafted free agents also adds depth to the Pelicans' roster and provides them with additional opportunities to find hidden gems. Overall, the Pelicans' 2023 draft can be viewed as a solid effort. They addressed a key need with their first-round pick, took a calculated risk in the second round, and added depth with their undrafted free agent signings. Only time will tell how these players develop, but the Pelicans have positioned themselves well for the future.

Fan Reactions and Expectations

Draft night is always a time of high emotion for fans, and the New Orleans Pelicans' selections in the 2023 NBA Draft were no exception. Pelicans fans took to social media to express their opinions on the team's picks, with reactions ranging from excitement to cautious optimism. The selection of Jordan Hawkins was generally well-received, as fans recognized his shooting ability and the need for the Pelicans to improve their three-point shooting. Many fans expressed hope that Hawkins could become a reliable scorer off the bench and provide valuable spacing for Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram.

The selection of Emoni Bates was met with more mixed reactions. Some fans were intrigued by Bates' potential and willing to give him a chance, while others were more skeptical due to his past struggles. However, most fans seemed to agree that taking a chance on Bates in the second round was a worthwhile gamble, given his undeniable talent. As for expectations, Pelicans fans are hoping that the team's draft picks can contribute to the team's success in the upcoming season. They are eager to see Hawkins knock down shots and provide valuable spacing, and they are hopeful that Bates can develop into a reliable scorer off the bench. Overall, Pelicans fans are optimistic about the future and believe that the team is moving in the right direction. The 2023 draft class has the potential to play a significant role in the team's success, and fans are excited to see what the future holds.