Apr 5, 2013; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; New Orleans Hornets small forward Al-Farouq Aminu (0) controls the ball while defended by Utah Jazz small forward DeMarre Carroll (3) during the second half at EnergySolutions Arena. The Jazz won 95-83. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports

As the 2013-2014 NBA season approaches us the Pelicans new look roster has subjected current players to role changes. In Al-Farouq Aminu’s first three seasons his PPG and REB have progressed from 5.6 to 7.3 and 3.3 to 7.7 respectively, while his 3PT% has decreased from .315 to .211 with the additions of sharp shooters Ryan Anderson and Eric Gordon. Aminu started 71 of his 76 games played last year and unless head coach Monty Williams decides to start Tyreke Evans at the small forward position I foresee Aminu starting a majority of the regular season games, barring any injuries. Aminu in the 2013-2014 season will give the Pelicans a defensive presence with a stature at 6’9”, 215 pounds, as he averaged 1.2 steals and nearly a block a game last year.

The Pelicans added offensive firepower with the additions of combo guard Tyreke Evans and all star point guard Jrue Holiday. If Eric Gordon can stay healthy Aminu’s offensive production should not increase much from last years 7.3 points per game. Aminu’s 3PT% should also continue the similar trend if the other players can stay healthy as Gordon and Holiday both shoot from deep range, Aminu should see a decrease in opportunities and will be mostly relied on his rebounding and defensive presence. Aminu fits this role perfectly as he can roam free and allow the other offensive player to drive and create open looks for Aminu and the rest of his front court teammates.