Dallas Mavericks rumors: Grades for J.J. Redick trade with Pelicans

New Orleans Pelicans grade for J.J. Redick trade with Dallas Mavericks

The Pelicans wanted to give more playing time to young guards Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Kira Lewis Jr. Redick is still one of the best shooters in the league, so New Orleans did not want to just drop him from the rotation. The move frees up minutes for their young talent while netting the Pelicans a second-round pick.

James Johnson is on an expiring contract and Wesley Iwundu is under contract next season at just $1.8 million. New Orleans absorbs that slight hit in 2022 after dealing away two expiring contracts. The Pelicans added in Nicolo Melli to avoid paying the luxury tax this season.

New Orleans sits 11th in the Western Conference and just 2.5 games out of the play-in tournament coming into Thursday’s action. They held on to Lonzo Ball as they look to move into the top ten.

Pelicans grade for J.J. Redick trade with Dallas Mavericks: B

New Orleans opened up minutes for their young players but lost a veteran floor spacer. It was a move that could work out for them long-term, but it is never wise to get rid of one of the best shooters in the NBA. Just ask the Mavericks when they moved Seth Curry to Philadelphia in the 2020 offseason. Still, the Pelicans accomplished their goal of getting back an asset for Redick. That earns them a B for the deal.

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