Report: Pelicans Interested In Veteran Forward

A new report has New Orleans interested in a veteran forward.

Terry Kimble | Jul 24, 2023

Report: Pelicans Interested In Veteran Forward /

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New Orleans Pelicans

New Orleans, LA - The New Orleans Pelicans are interested in veteran forward Rudy Gay, according to HoopsHype's Michael Scotto. Several other teams reportedly are vying for the services of the 17-year, former first-round draft pick. Gay was a member of the Utah Jazz last season before being traded twice this offseason.

New Orleans could use some additional veteran leadership. The team parted ways with Garrett Temple earlier this month, although Temple was a minor contributor on the court. Rudy Gay, on the other hand, appeared in 56 games for the Utah Jazz, averaging nearly 15 minutes a contest off the bench.

Over the past six seasons, Gay has proven to be consistently dependable, having played an average of averaging 62 games per year. The previous two seasons for Gay were the first in his career he did not average double-digit points. The forward is a career 34.6% three-point shooter during his time in the NBA.

Rudy Gay - Pelicans Showing Interest — Nov 27, 2021; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Jazz forward Rudy Gay (8) warms up prior to a game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Vivint Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports

Besides the Pelicans, playoff-caliber teams such as the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, and Chicago Bulls are reportedly inquiring about Gay. New Orleans is currently $2.9 million over the tax line, so a roster move would need to take place to sign Gay and avoid the luxury tax.

Determing how much playing time Gay could get on this current Pelicans squad remains to be seen. The team still needs rim protection heading into the upcoming season. Still, a savvy veteran on this young roster can extend benefits past just on the court.

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