Would this trade make sense for the New Orleans Pelicans?
Zion Williamson is the centerpiece of the franchise for the Pelicans moving forward. If there is any doubt that he will stick around long term, that is something that New Orleans has to tackle head on.
It might not seem like trading Ingram, who has been the other half of the dynamic duo, would help but it depends on what the return might be. In this case, the Pelicans would add some more depth and experience.
The Pelicans have some flexibility to trade Brandon Ingram for a more balanced unit around Williamson, especially if it continues to add shooting. This gives New Orleans some more power around Williamson and this move would give them depth.
Cam Johnson leads the way. He is a promising young talent with a chance to thrive in a bigger role. New Orleans would give him the opportunity to score from beyond the arc in a fast-paced offense. It doesn’t hurt to add a young stretch-big in Jalen Smith who will be on a rookie contract for the foreseeable future.
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Jae Crowder is a short-term option but brings plenty of leadership to a young and inexperienced unit looking to take the next step. The first-round draft capital is something that would continue to load up on assets.
The Pelicans know that they have to make some big moves if they want to have a chance at building a winner in a difficult Western Conference. This is a chance to retool the roster and hopefully head in the right direction.
