2015 NBA Free Agency: 3 Forwards the Pelicans Could Target

Al-Farouq Aminu

Dec 11, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Pelicans small forward Al-Farouq Aminu (0) drives past Detroit Pistons small forward Josh Smith (6) during the second quarter at New Orleans Arena. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

I know many of you probably still cringe at the mention of the former Pelican forward, but hear me out. For years (including all of Aminu’s years), New Orleans has needed help at the three spot. Dante Cunningham worked his tail off for the Pels this past year, but his natural position is still at the four. Aminu is the same guy on the surface, but he may just be a good fit for this Pelicans team.

He played significantly less minutes for the Mavs this past year than he played for New Orleans. His game in the regular season was what you should come to expect: 41% shooting from the field, 27% from three, accompanied by solid defense and terrific rebounding from the three.

Aminu’s struggle from deep was well documented in New Orleans, more so because the overall spacing of the Pels was lackluster. However, with Eric Gordon finally healthy (for now) and reborn as a three point sharp shooter, Aminu may be able to get more minutes without being pressured to score from behind the arc.

What makes Aminu more interesting is his playoff performance with Dallas. Somehow, someway, Aminu shot 64% from deep when Dallas needed him most. Yes, the five game sample size is small and Dallas still ended up losing, but that success needs to be considered. Was it a fluke? Did he finally discover his stroke?

Whatever the answer may be, the Pelicans must consider a reunion with Aminu. And it may only cost them a slice of their Bi-Annual Exception.

Next: On the Rise