The NBA Draft Lottery granted the New Orleans Pelicans their second ever #1 pick. In 2012, after a controversial failed attempt to trade their star player, Chris Paul, to the Lakers, the Pelicans received their first ever #1 pick. Now, after high-profile trade drama involving the Lakers and Anthony Davis that never resulted in a trade, the Pelicans have received another #1 pick.
In an attempt to discourage teams from tanking, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver implemented new rules for this year’s lottery. The three times with the worst record now each have a 14% chance at the first pick, down from the previous 25% chance. The Pelicans managed to secure the #1 pick with only a 6% chance at getting it. With tanking no longer being a guaranteed shot at a good pick, Owners and GMs will have to balance losing games and selling tickets.
The New Orleans Pelicans have had trouble selling tickets even with MVP candidate Anthony Davis as their star. But with the chance to draft Zion Williamson, the two could form a powerful big-man lineup that people pay to see. Zion also has to option to play another year at Duke and try to get drafted by a different team next year. This would be devastating for the Pelicans, and they would have to reevaluate their game plan on who to draft. However, Zion would risk getting injured in college before making it to the league and would risk his value decreasing next season.
With the third pick, the Knicks will likely draft Ja Morant or RJ Barrett and try to sign Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant this offseason. These three shooters with great ball handling skills could make the Knicks a powerhouse in the East.
With the third pick, the Knicks will likely draft Ja Morant or RJ Barrett and try to sign Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant this offseason. These three shooters with great ball handling skills could make the Knicks a powerhouse in the East.
In the West, the Lakers lose out with the fourth pick, leaving Lebron’s future success with the team questionable. With a new coaching staff, the Lakers hope to make the playoffs this year, but first other young players will have to step up.
With a strong draft class, the league can expect to see a lot of new talent next season. And with the decreased effectiveness of tanking, the competition is only going to get fiercer.
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