Why The New Orleans Pelicans Do The Deal 

The Pelicans shouldn’t jump to do this deal. They should wait and see how the season is playing out first. 

If they’re as competitive as they’re hoping to be, there’s no reason to make this move. On the other hand, if they get off to a slow start, bringing in the defensively superior Ayton to replace Valanciunas could pay dividends. 

Moreover, that’s only the first condition the Pelicans should need to satisfy to make this trade. It also hinges on Zion Williamson’s three-point shooting. If it’s poor, they may need to target a big man who spaces the floor and defends the rim.

On the other hand, if Williamson is connecting from deep, he becomes a viable pairing with Ayton. In fact, the two may have the most combined strength of any 5/4 pairing in the NBA. The Pelicans would be playing bully ball following this deal. 

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Deandre Ayton, New Orleans Pelicans & Phoenix Suns Updates

If everything clicks, they might be able to bully their way through their combined lack of experience.