Pelicans 2023 Draft: Who Did They Pick?

Hey Pelicans fans! Let's dive deep into the New Orleans Pelicans' 2023 draft and break down each pick, what they bring to the team, and how they might fit into the future of the franchise. This is your ultimate guide to understanding the newest members of the Pelicans family.

Jordan Hawkins: Sharpshooting Specialist

With the 14th overall pick, the Pelicans selected Jordan Hawkins, a sharpshooting guard from UConn. Hawkins comes into the NBA with a reputation as one of the best shooters in the draft, and his ability to space the floor will be a valuable asset for the Pelicans. Let's break down why this pick makes sense.

First and foremost, the Pelicans needed shooting. Last season, they struggled with consistent perimeter scoring, and Hawkins addresses that need immediately. His ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc will open up the floor for Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, giving them more room to operate inside. Imagine defenses having to respect Hawkins on the perimeter – that creates driving lanes and opportunities for easy baskets.

Beyond his shooting, Hawkins also brings a level of intensity and competitiveness that the Pelicans will appreciate. He played a key role in UConn's national championship run, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. This experience will be invaluable as he transitions to the NBA, where every game carries significant weight.

However, Hawkins isn't a finished product just yet. He needs to improve his ball-handling and playmaking skills to become a more complete offensive player. Defensively, he'll need to get stronger and more disciplined to hold his own against NBA guards. But with the right coaching and development, Hawkins has the potential to become a valuable contributor for the Pelicans for many years to come.

The Pelicans are banking on Hawkins' shooting translating to the NBA level, and if it does, this pick could be a home run. He fits a clear need for the team, and his work ethic and competitiveness suggest that he'll be willing to put in the work to improve his game. Keep an eye on Hawkins – he could quickly become a fan favorite in New Orleans.

What Experts are Saying About Hawkins

NBA draft experts have generally praised the Pelicans' selection of Jordan Hawkins, citing his elite shooting ability and potential to develop into a more well-rounded player. Many analysts believe that Hawkins was the best shooter in the draft and that his skill set is perfectly suited for the modern NBA. Some have raised concerns about his defensive limitations, but most agree that his offensive upside makes him a worthwhile pick at No. 14.

E.J. Liddell: A Potential Gem

In the second round, with the 41st overall pick, the Pelicans selected E.J. Liddell, a forward from Ohio State. Liddell is an intriguing prospect who could prove to be a steal for the Pelicans. He's a versatile player who can score inside and out, rebound, and block shots.

Liddell was a dominant force in college, showcasing his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. He's a strong and physical player who isn't afraid to mix it up inside, but he also has a smooth jump shot that extends out to the three-point line. Defensively, he's a solid rim protector and has the athleticism to guard multiple positions.

However, Liddell's size is a bit of a concern. At 6'7", he's undersized for a power forward in the NBA, and he may struggle to defend bigger players. He also needs to improve his ball-handling and passing skills to become a more complete offensive player.

Before his injury, many projected Liddell to be a first-round pick, and the Pelicans are hoping that he can regain that form. If he does, he could become a valuable role player for the team, providing scoring, rebounding, and defense off the bench.

The Pelicans took a calculated risk on Liddell, and it could pay off handsomely. He has the potential to be a versatile and impactful player, and if he can stay healthy, he could quickly become a fan favorite in New Orleans. This pick shows that the Pelicans are willing to take chances on players with upside, and it could be a move that pays off in the long run.

What to Expect from Liddell

Pelicans fans should expect Liddell to bring energy, toughness, and versatility to the team. He's a player who will compete hard on every possession and won't back down from anyone. While he may not be an immediate star, he has the potential to develop into a valuable role player who can contribute in a variety of ways.

Analyzing the Pelicans' Draft Strategy

The Pelicans' 2023 draft strategy was clear: address their need for shooting and take a chance on a high-upside player in the second round. With the selection of Jordan Hawkins, they added a proven shooter who can space the floor and open up the offense. With the selection of E.J. Liddell, they took a calculated risk on a player with the potential to be a versatile and impactful contributor.

Overall, it was a solid draft for the Pelicans. They addressed their most pressing need and added two players who could potentially become valuable members of the team. It remains to be seen how these players will perform in the NBA, but the Pelicans have given themselves a chance to improve their roster and compete for a championship.

The Big Picture: How These Picks Fit into the Pelicans' Future

The additions of Hawkins and Liddell could have a significant impact on the Pelicans' future. Hawkins' shooting will help to unlock the team's offense, while Liddell's versatility could provide valuable depth and flexibility.

More importantly, these picks demonstrate that the Pelicans are committed to building a sustainable contender. They're not just looking for quick fixes; they're investing in young players who can grow and develop alongside Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. This long-term approach could pay off handsomely in the years to come, as the Pelicans look to establish themselves as a perennial force in the Western Conference.

The Pelicans are building something special in New Orleans, and the 2023 draft was another step in the right direction. With a mix of young talent and established stars, the future looks bright for the Pelicans. So, get ready to cheer on the newest members of the team, because they could be key pieces in the Pelicans' quest for a championship.

Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz

Pelicans fans have been buzzing about the team's draft picks on social media. Many are excited about the potential of Jordan Hawkins to provide much-needed shooting, while others are intrigued by the upside of E.J. Liddell. There's a general sense of optimism and excitement surrounding the Pelicans' future, and fans are eager to see how these young players will perform in the upcoming season.

Conclusion: A Promising Draft for the Pelicans

In conclusion, the New Orleans Pelicans' 2023 draft was a success. They addressed their need for shooting with the selection of Jordan Hawkins and took a chance on a high-upside player in E.J. Liddell. These picks have the potential to improve the team's offense, add valuable depth, and contribute to the Pelicans' long-term success.

As Pelicans fans, we have reason to be excited about the future. The team is building a strong foundation with a mix of young talent and established stars, and the 2023 draft was another step in the right direction. So, let's welcome the newest members of the Pelicans family and get ready to cheer them on as they embark on their NBA journeys. Who Dat!