3 Potential Future Pelicans Centers to Watch in the Playoffs

New Orleans needs to upgrade at center, and these free agents could be options this offseason.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 2:22pm

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The New Orleans Pelicans are already looking ahead to the offseason, with lead decisionmaker Joe Dumars hinting at the team's desire to get tougher and add a center to play alongside Zion Williamson and Derik Queen. While the Pelicans don't have a lot of cap space, there are a few free agent centers they could target, including Mitchell Robinson, Rob Williams III, and Nikola Vucevic.

Why it matters

The Pelicans have a talented young core, but need to find the right center to complement Williamson and Queen. Upgrading at that position could help the team take the next step and become a true contender in the Western Conference.

The details

Mitchell Robinson is a tough, physical presence who is an elite rebounder and rim protector, but has struggled with injuries. Rob Williams III is another injury-prone but talented big man who can rebound, pass, and protect the rim. Nikola Vucevic is a veteran center who is an excellent offensive player but a defensive liability, which could make him a short-term fit in New Orleans.

  • The Pelicans will have around $12 million to spend in free agency this offseason, likely limiting them to mid-level exception contracts.
  • Robinson, Williams, and Vucevic will all have important roles for their current teams in the upcoming NBA playoffs.

The players

Mitchell Robinson

A physical, defensive-minded center who is one of the best rebounders in the league, but has struggled with injuries in recent seasons.

Rob Williams III

A talented young center who can rebound, pass, and protect the rim, but has also dealt with injury issues throughout his career.

Nikola Vucevic

A veteran center who is an excellent offensive player, particularly as a shooter and passer, but is a defensive liability.

Joe Dumars

The lead decisionmaker for the New Orleans Pelicans, who has hinted at the team's desire to get tougher and add a center this offseason.

Zion Williamson

The star forward for the New Orleans Pelicans, who will need a capable center to play alongside him next season.

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What they’re saying

“If that is the plan, what the Pelicans need is an upgrade at center. Dumars said that he would like to add more toughness to the team, which can be addressed among the center options in free agency.”

— Joe Dumars, Lead Pelicans decisionmaker

What’s next

The Pelicans will have to evaluate their options and determine which free agent center best fits their needs and budget this offseason.

The takeaway

The Pelicans have a talented young core, but need to find the right center to complement Zion Williamson and Derik Queen. While their financial resources are limited, they have a few intriguing free agent options to consider that could help them take the next step as a team.