Ryan Anderson (Photo : J Pat Carter | Getty Images Sport)
The New Orleans Pelicans' Ryan Anderson is being reportedly being shopped and he has been linked to Markieff Morris.
Anderson has been stellar for the Pelicans' despite their losses. He is a definite "stretch 4" and is also a good passer.
Why would the Pelicans' shop him? NBC Sports mentioned his impending free agency. "The Pelicans could lose Anderson in unrestricted free agency this summer. Rather than keep the veteran through a season that has gotten off on the wrong foot, New Orleans could build for the future."
The Pelicans may also look at the Toronto Raptors for possible pieces. Delon Wright, the 20th pick in the draft, is an underrated combo guard who could not get playing time behind Kyle Lowry and Cory Joseph. Patrick Patterson is already a veteran and he can be a cheaper alternative for the Pelicans, who obviously want to strengthen other positions. They can also ask for future picks.
One of the big caveats to Ryan Anderson is that there are already rumors of a possible max contract possibly offered. This started with Eric Pincus of the LA Times in his Twitter account.
"I spoke to someone with a non-LA NBA franchise who said he expects Ryan Anderson to be a max player this summer, just based on market"
Hoops Rumors assessed Anderson of qualifying for the middle-tier max of a projected $24.9MM since he is an eight year veteran. Since there will be a ton of teams with cap space and not too many big-name free agents, Anderson can command that amount.
"Ryno" could definitely help the Raptors this season if they acquire him but holding onto him beyond this season is another matter.
