NBA trade rumors say that the New Orleans Pelicans are trying to help their front court. They are in advance trade talks with the Philadelphia 76ers to acquire big man Jahlil Okafor. Teams were still negotiating Monday in an attempt to finish the trade.
New Orleans Pelicans Eyeing To Acquire Jahil Okafor
If the rumored trade will push through, New Orleans is expected to send backup center Alexis Ajinca in exchange for Okafor. As of Monday afternoon, there was no deal completed yet. Philadelphia is looking for at least one future first-round pick in exchange for Okafor. Jahlil Okafor was selected with the No. 3 pick in the 2015 draft. However, he has been on the trading block for months along with teammate center Nerlens Noel, as a result of the Sixers' glut of big men.
Drafted pick Joel Embiid and Dario Saric have had a powerful rookie season in Philadelphia; which increased the chances that Okafor or Noel will be dealt with before the February 23 trade deadline. The Pelicans have previously chased after centers such as Milwaukee's Greg Monroe and Brooklyn's Brook Lopez in search of an offensive-minded frontcourt.
It's Everybody's Ball Game
According to ESPN, when the Pelicans turned to small ball with Davis and Terrence Jones logging most of their minutes at center. Ajinca, 28, has played just three minutes since December 26. He said that he feels that he needs to play. He added that it is one of the major keys. If Ajinca time is up here, then it is. Then we'll see. He is not controlling anything, so we'll see.
Okafor was back in the Sixers’ starting lineup on Monday after missing the Saturday night game at Miami with a right-knee soreness. According to the Sporting News, it is almost impossible for the 76ers to keep Jahlil Okafor. However, no deal is imminent yet. As of now, the New Orleans is the latest potential suitor for Jahlil Okafor.
