Despite being selected in the 2022 NBA Draft Class, the New Orleans Pelicans’ E.J. Liddell is set for his rookie campaign this season. Similarly to Chet Holmgren of the Oklahoma City Thunder, Liddell was forced out of action last season due to injury. He suffered a torn ACL in last year’s summer league. This came after the 6-foot-6 forward was selected with the No. 41 overall pick out of Ohio State.
At Ohio State, Liddell boasted a legendary career. He earned All-Big Ten honors in two of his three seasons as a Buckeye. He also earned a conference all-defense nod in his junior year in which he averaged 19.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 2.6 blocks per game.
On Saturday night, Liddell flaunted a perfect stat line. The 22-year-old finished with 10 points, two rebounds, and three assists in a Pelicans loss to the Atlanta Hawks. He nailed both of his attempts within and outside the 3-point stripe. He also recorded zero turnovers, and New Orleans had a point differential of plus-13 with Liddell on the floor even though they lost by five points.
Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing in at 240 pounds, Liddell is a strong and physical presence on the court. Pair this with tough shot-making, touch, and a functional handle, and it is easy to see how he is such a versatile scorer. Liddell can create for himself from a standstill, manufacture offense from the post, and finish plays as a roller or catch-and-shooter.
Defensively, Liddell compliments his strength with mobility. He possesses a good blend of strength and quickness to be cast in a variety of ways on defense. However, he brings the most value as a helpside defender, where his athleticism and smarts allow him to rack up blocks.
As a result of his injury, Liddell’s incoming rookie season is being overlooked by many. On a New Orleans team looking to make a deep playoff run with a healthy roster, Liddell’s unique skillset as a big forward could allow him to truly make a two-way postseason impact. He can absorb defensive responsibilities Zion Williamson struggles with all while maintaining utility in a variety of offensive sets as both a playmaker and play finisher.
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