Why This Trade Would Benefits The New Orleans Pelicans
Like the New York Knicks, the New Orleans Pelicans is a rebuilding franchise with their eyes on the future. They are currently 11-13 in a very difficult Western Conference.
The Pelicans sent away a veteran player in Jrue Holiday in the offseason and JJ Redick could be next. This would help them get a head start on their goals for the future.
Zion Williamson leads the team with 23.8 points per game while Brandon Ingram is as close as possible behind him with 23.7 a night. These are the cornerstone players for the future and the Pelicans know this. Now, it is about putting the right players around them.
There is little to no depth in New Orleans. They have just two other players averaging double-figure points per game outside of Williamson and Ingram. This is why Redick and Lonzo Ball are two big names on the trading block. They would allow the Pelicans to build up some assets for the future.
The Knicks have some first-round draft capital that they would be able to send New Orleans. This is a win for the Pelicans since they will be getting rid of a veteran player on an expiring contract.