Brooklyn Nets Receive: F Zion Williamson, G Devonte’ Graham, 2023 First-Round Pick (LAL via NOP), 2025 First-Round Pick (MIL via NOP)
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: F Kevin Durant
There were a number of ways we could have gone with this one. For Zion Williamson to be involved, a deal would need to happen midseason after the restriction is lifted due to signing his contract extension.
The Brooklyn Nets could actually prefer a package built around Brandon Ingram and a deeper reserve of draft capital. After all, Ingram has a more proven track record than Williamson (especially when it comes to staying on the floor).
With that said, the New Orleans Pelicans could prefer that package as well. Parting with Williamson, in spite of all of his injury woes, will sting. It wasn’t long ago that he was the most anticipated NBA prospect in a decade or more.
Still, this feels like the most reasonable formulation of a trade between these two teams. After all, any team that’s trading for Durant needs to be putting him in a position to compete for the championship.
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At this point, Williamson’s health record is just too concerning to bank on.
Realistically, he’s more suited for a team with a longer-term outlook. Does he make Brooklyn’s bright enough to sign off on this deal?
