Would this trade make sense for the New Orleans Pelicans?
The New Orleans Pelicans would be getting a second premier perimeter threat to put alongside Zion Williamson (once he comes back). CJ McCollum has been consistently solid throughout his career, and he would help form a nice big three down in New Orleans.
McCollum would provide somewhat of a calming presence out on the perimeter for Williamson. Brandon Ingram already does that, but adding two All-Star-caliber players on the outside would be huge for spacing things out for Williamson.
Obviously, for all of this to come together, Williamson would have to get healthy. But looking at a world with a fully healthy Williamson on the court for the Pelicans, the trio of him, McCollum, and Ingram, the combination of spacing and paint dominance would be amazing.
The addition of Larry Nance Jr. in this trade would be underrated, too.
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New Orleans would be trading high on Jonas Valanciunas in this deal, and Nance Jr. could fill in as the starting center for the Pelicans until they find an upgrade (if they choose to do so).
Overall, this trade would help the Pelicans focus on winning now. It all revolves around Williamson getting back on the court, because he’d obviously make this team click. Regardless, the addition of CJ McCollum would be great for the Pelicans.
