Aaron Nesmith will need to answer concerns about his health after missing all but 14 games this season. Assuming he provides a clean bill of health, however, the lottery is a very reasonable projection. He’s one of the best shooters in the draft, and the Pelicans have a clear need for spacers.
New Orleans has found great success in the form of J.J. Redick, but he’s an aging rental — not a building block. Zion Williamson is an unstoppable force inside 10 feet, Jrue Holiday is a clever playmaker, and Lonzo Ball is a whiz-kid at point. Nesmith could find New Orleans as a highly productive home, both for him and his teammates.
With clean, compact mechanics, Nesmith is a versatile shooter. He can hit shots on the move or standing still. He’s not overly dynamic as an offensive player, but his ability to efficiently stroke deep shots at high volume is an irrefutable NBA skill. Players who have ready-to-go NBA skills are valuable, especially in a class heavy on flawed prospects.