The New Orleans Pelicans could pursue Brooklyn Nets guard Ochai Agbaji this offseason via free agency.
The New Orleans Pelicans are currently searching for players to compete for that final roster spot throughout training camp. They have already added a guard in Kobe Bufkin and a center in Christian Koloko; now the logical next option would be to find a wing option.
An interesting talent who has been down on his luck, but would be worth considering is Brooklyn Nets wing Ochai Agbaji, a hard-nosed defensive talent who could be found at a great value.
Agbaji was the No. 14 pick back in the 2022 NBA draft. The hope was obviously that he would develop into more of a well-rounded talent, which he hasn't consistently, and he is now trying to find his next home in the league. He has also moved around a lot early in his career, which could have hindered his development.
There's enough there to like to keep other NBA front offices interested. He is a valuable defender who rebounds well, blocks shots, is careful with the ball and can draw contact. At his worst, he still held a relatively average defensive value. At his best, last season, he was among the best in the league at his position.
Jamahl Mosley made it known that the Pelicans will worry about the defensive side of the ball first. In their view, that will generate offense and figuring out how to get stops is the first step. They did just turn the ship around with the Orlando Magic, so perhaps they know what they are doing.
Agbaji would be a solid way to round on the roster if that is the case. He's a 6-foot-5 wing with a little bit of versatility. He wouldn't have the offensive output of someone like Bennedict Mathurin, but that's just not what the team needs right now.
New Orleans has already been connected to Ziaire Williams this offseason, so they're at least interested in adding a player in that profile.
The main thing keeping the former Kansas Jayhawks star from being a perfect choice, is that his three-point shot has been inconsistent. In 24/25, he did hit 39.9% of his threes on 4.0 attempts per game. That is more than solid for his archetype of player. This past season, though, that dropped to 26.6% on 2.1 attempts. Some of that is environment and role, clearly, but still not a great sign. He is a career 33.9% shooter.
Bottom line, the Pelicans would be able to bring in a great defensive presence for an end-of-the-bench wing who can occasionally knock down a three. He would at least be worth bringing in for camp.
