Pelicans Draft 2020: Who Did They Pick?

Hey Pelicans fans! Let's take a stroll down memory lane and revisit the New Orleans Pelicans' 2020 draft picks. This was a crucial draft for the team, as they looked to add young talent to complement their existing core. The Pelicans had some high expectations heading into the season, and the draft was a key opportunity to bolster their roster. Getting the right players through the draft is super important for building a successful NBA team, and the Pelicans were hoping to find some diamonds in the rough. So, who did they pick, and how have those players fared since joining the team? Let's dive in and find out!

Analyzing the Pelicans' Draft Strategy

Before we get into the specifics of each pick, it's important to understand the Pelicans' overall draft strategy in 2020. What were their needs? What type of players were they targeting? Did they prioritize potential over immediate impact, or were they looking for guys who could contribute right away? The Pelicans were in an interesting position heading into the 2020 draft. They had a young superstar in Zion Williamson, but they needed to surround him with the right pieces to compete in the tough Western Conference. This meant finding players who could shoot, defend, and create plays – all while fitting into the team's culture. The Pelicans also had to consider their long-term future. Were they building for a championship run in the next few years, or were they focused on sustained success over a longer period? These questions likely influenced their draft decisions. When you are building a team, you must consider the long and short-term plan to set the franchise up for success. It can be a difficult balance to strike, but if done correctly, it can make a franchise a contender for years to come. Also, it is important to consider the impact on the franchise. Were they drafting to fill the needs of the franchise or drafting the best available player? These questions are very impactful when building a roster from the ground up.

First Round Pick: Kira Lewis Jr.

The Pelicans' first pick in the 2020 draft was Kira Lewis Jr., selected with the 13th overall pick. Lewis, a speedy and athletic point guard from Alabama, was known for his scoring ability and potential as a playmaker. The Pelicans were hoping that Lewis could develop into a key contributor off the bench and eventually become a starter. He possessed blazing speed and the ability to get to the rim, which made him an intriguing prospect. Coming out of college, some analysts believed that Lewis had the potential to be a star in the NBA. However, he needed to improve his shooting and decision-making to reach his full potential. The Pelicans were willing to be patient with Lewis, as they saw him as a long-term investment. Early on, Lewis showed flashes of brilliance, demonstrating his ability to score in bunches and create opportunities for his teammates. However, he also struggled with consistency and turnovers, which are common issues for young point guards in the NBA. The Pelicans coaching staff worked diligently with Lewis to refine his skills and help him adapt to the speed and physicality of the NBA game. Despite his potential, Lewis's time with the Pelicans was unfortunately cut short due to injuries. He suffered a torn ACL, which sidelined him for a significant amount of time and hampered his development. The injury was a major setback for both Lewis and the Pelicans, as it disrupted his progress and limited his opportunities to showcase his talent on the court. It is always tough to see a young player suffer a serious injury, especially when they are just starting to find their rhythm in the NBA. After recovering from his injury, Lewis was eventually traded to the Toronto Raptors, where he continues to work on his game and pursue his NBA career. While his time with the Pelicans didn't pan out as hoped, there's no denying his talent and potential.

Second Round Pick: Naji Marshall

With their second-round pick, the Pelicans selected Naji Marshall. Marshall, a versatile forward from Xavier, was known for his toughness, rebounding, and defensive ability. He was seen as a player who could contribute in a variety of ways and provide valuable depth to the Pelicans' roster. Marshall was a bit of a late bloomer in college, but he really blossomed during his junior year at Xavier. He showcased his ability to score, rebound, and defend at a high level, which caught the attention of NBA scouts. The Pelicans were impressed with Marshall's motor and willingness to do the dirty work, which they felt would make him a valuable asset to the team. Unlike some of the other draft picks, Marshall was not expected to be a star. Instead, he was seen as a role player who could contribute in a variety of ways. His versatility was a major selling point, as he could play multiple positions and guard different types of players. Marshall quickly became a fan favorite in New Orleans due to his hustle and relentless effort on the court. He was always willing to dive for loose balls, take charges, and defend the opponent's best player. His energy and enthusiasm were contagious, and he helped to spark the team on many occasions. Over time, Marshall has developed into a reliable and consistent contributor for the Pelicans. He has improved his shooting and decision-making, which has allowed him to play an even bigger role on the team. Marshall is a testament to the importance of hard work and perseverance. He wasn't the most highly touted prospect coming out of college, but he has proven that he belongs in the NBA. As of today, Naji is still on the team and contributes to the overall success of the franchise. He does the dirty work and will continue to be a fan favorite because of it.

Undrafted Gem: Undrafted Players Who Shined

Sometimes, the best finds come from outside the draft. The Pelicans, like many teams, have had success with undrafted players who shined. These players often bring a unique level of hunger and determination, knowing they have to work harder to prove themselves. Identifying and developing these hidden gems can be a huge boost for any team. These players often come into the league with a chip on their shoulder, determined to prove that they belong. They are willing to do whatever it takes to earn a spot on the roster, whether it's diving for loose balls, playing tough defense, or knocking down open shots. The Pelicans have had a few undrafted players who have made a significant impact on the team over the years. These players may not have been highly touted prospects coming out of college, but they have carved out successful NBA careers through hard work and dedication. One example of an undrafted player who shined for the Pelicans is Jose Alvarado. Alvarado went undrafted in 2021 but earned a spot on the Pelicans' roster through his impressive play in the Summer League. He quickly became a fan favorite due to his tenacious defense and hustle. Alvarado's ability to disrupt opposing point guards and create turnovers made him a valuable asset off the bench. He brought energy and intensity to the game, which helped to spark the team on many occasions. Alvarado is a perfect example of how an undrafted player can make a significant impact on a team. He wasn't the most highly touted prospect coming out of college, but he has proven that he belongs in the NBA. His success is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in himself.

Overall Grade for the 2020 Draft Class

So, how would we grade the Pelicans' 2020 draft class overall? It's a mixed bag. Evaluating a draft class takes time, and injuries can significantly impact a player's trajectory. While Kira Lewis Jr.'s development was hampered by injuries, Naji Marshall has emerged as a valuable role player. Considering the circumstances, the Pelicans' 2020 draft class gets a C+. They didn't find a superstar, but they did find a solid contributor in Marshall. A lot of factors go into determining the success of a draft class. Obviously, you want to find players who can become stars and lead your team to championships. But even finding role players who can contribute to winning basketball is a positive outcome. The Pelicans were hoping that Kira Lewis Jr. would develop into a star point guard, but unfortunately, his injuries derailed those plans. However, they were able to find a diamond in the rough in Naji Marshall, who has become a valuable part of their rotation. Ultimately, the success of a draft class depends on a combination of factors, including player development, coaching, and luck. The Pelicans will continue to evaluate their draft classes and make adjustments as needed. The draft is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to building a successful NBA team. You also need to have a strong culture, a good coaching staff, and a little bit of luck. The Pelicans are still working to put all the pieces together, but they are making progress in the right direction.

The Impact on the Pelicans' Future

Looking ahead, the Pelicans' 2020 draft picks will continue to play a role in shaping the team's future. Naji Marshall's continued development will be crucial, and the team will be hoping he can take his game to the next level. The Pelicans are building a young and exciting team with a bright future. They have a superstar in Zion Williamson, and they have a number of other talented players who are continuing to improve. The Pelicans are hoping to compete for championships in the coming years, and the contributions of their 2020 draft picks will be an important part of that process. The team's success will depend on their ability to develop their young players and create a winning culture. The Pelicans have made a number of positive steps in recent years, and they are optimistic about their future. The team's fans are excited about the direction of the team, and they are looking forward to seeing what the future holds.

Conclusion

The 2020 NBA Draft was an important moment for the New Orleans Pelicans. While not a home run, the draft yielded a valuable role player in Naji Marshall and provided a learning experience for the team. The Pelicans will continue to build through the draft and free agency as they strive to become a championship contender. The NBA Draft is always an exciting time for fans, as it represents the hope and potential of the future. Teams are constantly looking for ways to improve their rosters, and the draft is a key opportunity to add young talent. The Pelicans have had some success in the draft over the years, and they will continue to rely on it as they build their team. The team's fans are passionate and supportive, and they are always eager to see what the future holds. The Pelicans are committed to building a winning team, and they are confident that they will eventually achieve their goals. So, Pelicans fans, let's keep supporting the team and looking forward to the future! Who knows, maybe the next draft will bring us the next superstar!