San Antonio Spurs Receive: F Brandon Ingram, C Jaxson Hayes
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: G Derrick White, F Doug McDermott, G Lonnie Walker IV, G Joshua Primo, 2024 First-Round Pick, 2026 First-Round Pick (Lottery Protected)
What a blockbuster this trade would be. Brandon Ingram would be sent to San Antonio to join up with Dejounte Murray, while the New Orleans Pelicans would reshape what the team looks like around superstar Zion Williamson.
Despite New Orleans’ struggles this year, Ingram is putting together a solid season. He’s averaging 22.4 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.2 assists while shooting 44.3 percent from the field and 34.5 percent from deep. As for Jaxson Hayes, rumors have stated that he could be available for trade.
Derrick White has quietly turned himself into an underrated combo guard in San Antonio. The 27-year-old is putting up 14.4 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 5.6 assists a night while shooting 41.7 percent from the field and 29.9 percent from three-point range. Meanwhile, Doug McDermott is averaging 11.3 points on 45.5-41.0 shooting splits.
The two young players San Antonio would be sending out in this deal have shown some potential, too. Lonnie Walker IV is a bit more polished but is still struggling with efficiency.
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Meanwhile, rookie Joshua Primo has struggled to earn regular rotational minutes until recently.
This trade may seem a bit weird, but what are the benefits? Why would the Spurs go out and trade for an All-Star right now? Why should the Pelicans be interested in trading away Ingram in exchange for youth and depth pieces?