Rumor: Nuggets could be connected to Pelicans wing J.J. Redick

According to The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor, the Denver Nuggets could be interested in veteran guard J.J. Redick of the New Orleans Pelicans. On the latest episode of The Mismatch podcast, O’Connor had this to say (Redick discussion begins with 38:05 left):

“I’ve heard two other teams that could be connected to J.J. and a potential trade and that’s Denver and Dallas.”

It’s not hard to see why Denver would be interested in Redick, a career 41.5% three-point shooter (though that clip has fallen to just 37% so far in 2020-21). Historically, the Nuggets have been a middle of the pack three-point shooting team, but this year they are fifth in the league with an average of 38.6%.

Any additional three-point shooting is welcome; however, Redick is 36 years old and on an expiring contract worth just over $13 million. To get matching salaries the Nuggets would likely have to include Will Barton, who is owed $13.7 million in 2020-21 and has a player option next season. Barton is averaging 11.5 points on 37.8% percent shooting from deep and has been a key component of this team even with some streaky play.

Shams Charania of the Athletic has already reported that the Pelicans are open to trading both Redick and point guard Lonzo Ball, who will be a restricted free agent this summer with a hefty qualifying offer of $14.4 million. If the Nuggets were to pursue a trade with New Orleans, I don’t really see a Redick-Barton swap as an upgrade for Denver at all. Going after Ball, who is younger and a solid perimeter defender would be the better long-term move if Denver is confident Ball would stay and they were willing to pay up.

The NBA trade deadline this season is March 25. Keep up with Denver Stiffs for all the latest Nuggets news and rumors.