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The Los Angeles Lakers agreed to a contract buyout with small forward Corey Brewer earlier today, and there’s some speculation that the New Orleans Pelicans will consider the new free agent for a spot on their roster.
OKC not expected to make any additions until after March 1, I’m told, but Corey Brewer definitely on their radar. T-Wolves, Jazz, Pelicans also expected to be in mix (already mentioned Cavs, Wiz, Portland, Bucks). Teams also monitoring Trevor Booker situation in Philly.
— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) February 28, 2018
Brewer is 31 years old who has spent time with five different organizations across his 11 seasons. This season for the Lakers he appeared in just 12.9 minutes per game — the smallest role of his career yet — and posted averages of 3.7 points and 1.7 rebounds. In his prime, Brewer was considered to be a good defender who brought excellent energy through an ability to create a high number of turnovers and get out in transition. However, he’s never possessed a reliable perimeter jumper and his 18.6 3PT% this season is downright scary.
Not only is Brewer looking to join a playoff team, he’s also rumored to be interested in landing a valuable role.
Corey Brewer expected to take his time in deciding his next spot after his Lakers buyout, I’m told. Cavs, Wizards, Portland, Bucks have shown some interest already, but Corey wants a legit role.
— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) February 28, 2018
This is why latching on with the Oklahoma City Thunder make a lot of sense for Brewer. Many point to that team needing to find a certifiable replacement for Andre Roberson, who suffered a season-ending patellar tendon injury, plus it certainly helps that Brewer and Head Coach Billy Donovan have a history together.
After Corey Brewer’s buyout with the Lakers, a reunion with his college coach Billy Donovan in Oklahoma City is a serious possibility, league sources tell ESPN. He will talk to other teams too.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 28, 2018
Personally, I don’t see any reason for the Pelicans to kick the tires on Brewer at this time. They recently signed DeAndre Liggins to a contract for the rest of the season and he’s a younger version of Brewer who is already acclimated to the New Orleans locker room and strategies. Further, Solomon Hill still appears to be on track to return sometime in the month of March. He’s been attending games, spending time with teammates in the locker room, is routinely practicing in Metairie, and could soon start traveling with the Pelicans for away contests.