5 Intriguing 2nd Round Draft Options for the Pelicans

Mar 11, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Virginia Cavaliers guard Malcolm Brogdon (15) dribbles the ball as Miami Hurricanes guard Sheldon McClellan (10) defends in the first half during the semi-finals of the ACC Conference tournament at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

#4: Malcolm Brogdon

Brogdon is easily the safest option in the 2nd round.

He’s got great size (6’6″ with a 6’10” wingspan) and weight (225 lbs) for a shooting guard. He’s the kind of player who could contribute for the Pelicans from day one and won’t get bullied by more experienced veterans. He isn’t a starter, but he’s already at the level of most fringe 2nd string/3rd string wing players in the league.

Brogdon earns his keep on the defensive end. He is far from a skilled athlete or leaper, but he’s smart and dedicated enough to lock down most wings. I doubt he will be able to defend point guards on an NBA level, but with Jrue and Cole around he probably won’t need to.

His passing makes him valuable as well. He won’t ever average high assist numbers or command a pick and roll, but he’s comfortable making skip passes and smart plays in transition.

He’s a solid three-point shooter, but only on open looks. He’s a career 36% marksman from deep who shot 39% last season and will only improve from here on out. His shot isn’t fast enough to make him dangerous off the dribble, but if left wide open he’s going to make defenses pay.

I would be surprised if Brogdon ever made an All-Star team or signed a max contract, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he had a solid 15 year NBA career as a 3 and D guy. If I was the Pelicans GM I’d be looking to gamble in the 2nd round, but I understand the appeal of playing it safe.

Brogdon is reliable and efficient. He’s improved every year in college, averaging 12.0, 16.2, 17.2, and 21.4 points per 40 minutes in his four-year career. He won’t ever become a star in the NBA, but he could be the first step towards the Pelicans building a competent bench unit.

Next: #3: Sins of thy Father