2023 NBA Mock Draft: Mavericks dream draft choice falls, Rockets shock at 4

14. New Orleans Pelicans acquire Jalen Hood-Schifino

The Pelicans love to draft length and upside. Hood-Schifino is a 6’4 guard with a 6’10 wingspan that could solve New Orleans' shot-creation issues. They want to put the ball in the hands of Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson, but can that duo stay healthy and live up to their superstar potential?

Hood-Schifino averaged 13.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 33.1 minutes per game during his lone season at Indiana. He offers the Pelicans another capable on-ball defender that can run pick and rolls, make plays, create shots, and dominate the mid-range. Hood-Schifino should be a seamless fit that can serve as a connector and facilitator for whoever is on the floor.

The 19-year-old will need some time to develop, but the Pelicans have never been shy about working their talent in slowly. Dyson Daniels will be looking for minutes in year two, which could leave Hood-Schifino as the third-string option that plays significant minutes in the G League. The 6’4 guard will continue working on his jumper as he attempts to become a standout rotation player in year two and beyond.

The New Orleans Pelicans could go in several different directions with this selection, but drafting a combo guard that does a little bit of everything on the floor seems like the perfect fit for their talented and versatile roster.