New Orleans Pelicans
Outside of the Oklahoma City Thunder, there probably isn’t another team with as much draft capital as the New Orleans Pelicans. The Pelicans were in a similar situation as the Trail Blazers, as their star player, Anthony Davis, requested a trade.
For only really having the Los Angeles Lakers as a trade partner, the Pelicans did pretty well with the return package all things considered.
The Pelicans have multiple first-round draft picks in 2022, 2024, 2025 and 2027 courtesy of the Davis and Jrue Holiday trades. They could realistically offer four first-round draft picks right off the bat and not be hurt long-term by it.
Player-wise, the Pelicans have one of the best trade chips to offer Portland in Brandon Ingram. The 2020 All-Star has reportedly had some concerns about his long-term future in New Orleans and doesn’t believe he is a great fit alongside Zion Williamson. His production was stellar again during the 2020-21 season, but if he is having concerns, this could be the opportunity to flip him for legitimate value.
READ MORE: Predictions for NBA Trade Rumors: Beal, Lillard, McCollum, Porzingis & Siakam
New Orleans has other intriguing young pieces in Kira Lewis, Jaxson Hayes and Nickeil Alexander-Walker that could interest Portland as well. Lonzo Ball and Josh Hart could also be used as part of a sign-and-trade for Lillard if the Trail Blazers insist on receiving either of those players as well.
