Before the season kicked off, the Jrue Holiday led New Orleans Pelicans had high hopes. They had a team built for the future. Many picked them as one of the surprise teams in the NBA. Some even had them making the playoffs. However, things have not clicked for them. The Pelicans are just 6-21, including losing twelve consecutive games. They have the 29th ranked defense in the league. Now, the Pelicans might make changes.
Jrue Holiday on the Trading Block
Yet what that also means is Jrue Holiday is indeed available via trade, league sources say. It would surely cost a significant amount to pry him away from the Pels, but this is a notable change in status given how unavailable Holiday was to interested teams last season
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) December 17, 2019
Marc Stein reported that guard Jrue Holiday is on the trading block. Holiday was viewed as the leader of the team. However, given the youth movement of the Pelicans, it seems he does not want to enter a rebuilding phase. J.J. Redick is also on the trading block but the Pelicans are reluctant to trade him. This is a surprise given that Holiday signed a five-year $126 million contract in 2017. He is a valuable player and many teams could use his services. The Pelicans are looking for a huge return for Holiday.
What Does Jrue Holiday Bring?
Despite Brandon Ingram‘s hot start, Holiday’s play has been solid. In 25 games played, he averages 19.4 points per game, 6.8 assists per game and five rebounds per game. Holiday is better known for his defense. He has been the constant in New Orleans amid all of the changes over the last few seasons. Holiday’s tough style and leadership will be a boost to any team, especially a contender. However, many contending teams are solid at the guard spot. Also, Holiday’s contract could be a roadblock. His deal expires in 2022.
Teams Who Should Trade for Jrue Holiday
Miami Heat
The Heat are one of the most surprising teams in the NBA. They are in a position to return to the playoffs. However, they are perhaps one player away from NBA title contention. Holiday will be the perfect combo guard for them. He will take the pressure off of Jimmy Butler, who is currently running the offense. A drawback could be the Pelicans’ asking price. They could ask for players like Kendrick Nunn and Duncan Robinson in return.
Dallas Mavericks
Like the Heat, the Mavericks need another player to help them get further in the playoffs. With Luka Doncic recovering from injury, Holiday will fill in his spot perfectly. He will provide another scoring punch, in which the Mavericks need. Even when Doncic returns, Holiday will still have a vital role, allowing Doncic to hide on defense. Again, the Pelicans’ asking price could be costly. Draft picks and important role players will be on the line.
Utah Jazz
The Jazz should be in the playoffs by season’s end. However, they are missing firepower, especially on the offense. While Holiday is not the most flashy player, he scores nearly 20 points per game, in which the Jazz need. Also, his defensive prowess matches their scheme. The Jazz needs to upgrade from Mike Conley. Conley’s age and body have caught up to him. He could be in the trade package. However, it will be hard for the Jazz to convince the Pelicans to take him.