New Orleans Pelicans

The New Orleans Pelicans are in an interesting position. Most teams on this list would see expectations rise with the acquisition of Ben Simmons. But for New Orleans, their expectations are already sky-high.

The Pelicans expected to make the playoffs, and fell short. It cost Alvin Gentry his job, and then Doc Rivers passed on the Pelicans to go to the 76ers.

New Orleans needs to do anything it can to make the playoffs next season. The pressure will only increase if the roster around Zion Williamson struggles to mesh.

The Pelicans don’t have a top pick to offer, which puts them at a disadvantage compared to some other teams on this list. But New Orleans would be an incredibly intriguing destination for Simmons.

New Orleans could start by offering Lonzo Ball and their 2020 first round pick, plus a future first, but that still wouldn’t get a deal done. The Pelicans would have to be creative, but if they’re willing to pay, a Simmons-Williamson-Ingram trio would be fun to watch.