Does this trade make sense for the New Orleans Pelicans?
If the Pelicans can move Lonzo Ball for Malcolm Brogdon, there is no reason why they should not do this deal, that is unless they do not want to be hard-capped. By moving Bledsoe and Adams, the Pelicans now have a lot of cap space, but they will likely use this cap space to pursue a guy like Kyle Lowry in free agency.
By getting Lowry, the Pelicans will not have a lot of space to bring in another big contract, but Brogdon is only owed $21.7M, which is favorable given his value.
Taking Jeremy Lamb off this deal would be best for the Pelicans in terms of limiting the money they get back, but the Pacers would have to likely move him in order to bring in Lonzo Ball, which is why a third team could get involved in this deal to take Lamb’s contract.
A lot would need to happen in order for the Pacers to go “all-in” on Lonzo Ball, which is why this deal is unrealistic for the New Orleans Pelicans. Malcolm Brogdon should absolutely be a player they look to add next to Ingram and Zion, but moving Lonzo Ball for him does not seem like the Pacers are getting fair value.
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Does this trade make sense for the Pelicans? Yes. Is it realistic? Probably not, which is why a sign-and-trade for Lonzo Ball going to the Indiana Pacers should not be counted on.
