A mid-season acquisition, Wes Iwundu’s arrival came at the price of JJ Redick, whose departure brought its own stir of turmoil. For Iwundu, in a compacted season in which he joined a new team for the third time in two seasons, finding his footing and role with the Pelicans was a challenge.
For a team lacking wings, though, Iwundu could be one of the few internal options for New Orleans moving forward.
Stat of the Season
11.1%.
In 18 games with the Pelicans, Iwundu shot 2-of-18 from the 3-point line, or 11.1%. That percentage is not nearly as far away from his career 3-point percentage as it should be as he’s just a 28.6% 3-point shooter over his 223 games.
Notable quote from exit interview
On his focus in the offseason…
“First and foremost, getting healthy…and next after that comes the shooting part. I think those are my two main biggest focuses going into this offseason in order to look forward to next season and fitting in with the team even more.”
Overview
On paper, Iwundu is exactly what teams want in a wing. He’s 6’6″ with a wingspan over seven feet, athletic and fits the physical bill of a 3&D wing.
However, as noted, the 3-pointer part did not click in New Orleans and has not clicked during his time in the NBA. In 2018-19, Iwundu shot 36.7% from the 3-point line on 79 attempts. Take out that season and Iwundu has shot 24.8% on 169 attempts the rest of his time in the league.
Outlook
Fortunately, he now with the equivalent of the modern-day shot doctor in Fred Vinson. In working with Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball and Zion Williamson, Vinson has helped each improve aspects of their shooting. If he can have a similar impact on Iwundu, it could transform his role and impact on the team.
It’s a big ask, but it’s the clearest path to Iwundu being a productive member of the Pelicans moving forward. He’s under contract for next season but it may be one of his final chances in the league.