Pelicans: 2 Potential Draft Picks At No. 14

Two potential draft picks for the New Orleans Pelicans at No. 14.

The drama and anticipation of what direction the New Orleans Pelicans will go with the No. 14 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft are at an all-time high.  Potential ideas of trading up for an earlier pick have made their rounds through the rumor mill.  Two specific prospects could significantly help the Pelicans without trading Brandon Ingram, Zion Williamson, or many future first-round picks.

Mar 19, 2023; Denver, CO, USA; Baylor Bears guard Keyonte George (1) reacts in the second half against the Creighton Bluejays at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Michael Ciaglo-USA TODAY Sports

KEYONTE GEORGE

Shooting guard Keyonte George from Baylor has made a tremendous climb up draft boards after an outstanding freshman year.  George won Big 12 Freshman of the Year and All-Big 12 second-team honors in his first season competing at the collegiate level.

At 6-foot-4 and 185 pounds, George is quick, aggressive, and a terrific shot-creator who can easily find open teammates on the court.  Although he can improve efficiency, he makes up for it with his grit around the rim.  Last season, George averaged 15.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game.  He has a significant upside with his athletic ability and could be an excellent option in the first round for the Pelicans.

Mar 16, 2023; Orlando, FL, USA; Duke Blue Devils center Dereck Lively II (1) speaks to the media after the game against the Oral Roberts Golden Eagles at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Russell Lansford-USA TODAY Sports

DERECK LIVELY II

Dereck Lively II is the more likely prospect for New Orleans to snag with the 14th pick in this year's draft.  The 7-1 center from Duke brings an elite-level blocking ability and is an excellent rebounder.  During his freshman season, Lively averaged 10.4 rebounds and 4.7 blocks per 40 minutes.

With the Pelicans' position in the draft, picking up much-needed depth at center would be a smart move for New Orleans.  Lively brings intensity and a defensive mindset that could fill a desired spot for the Pelicans heading into next season.

ROADBLOCK TO LIVELY

There is a potential roadblock for the Pelicans' interest in Lively, as the Dallas Mavericks are heavily targeting the talented center as he rises on draft boards.  The Mavericks hold the No. 11 pick in this year's draft, so New Orleans must have a solid backup plan ahead of the first round Thursday night.

Although the Pelicans showed interest in potentially trading up to snag point guard Scoot Henderson, official talks or trades have yet to be discussed.  If New Orleans remains at No. 14 in the 2023 NBA Draft, George or Lively would be a great first-round pickup to add depth at positions and areas of need.