Brooklyn Nets

New Orleans Pelicans Receive: F/C Ben Simmons, 2025 First-Round Pick (PHX via BKN), 2027 First-Round Pick (PHI via BKN), 2028 First-Round Pick (PHX via BKN), 2028 First-Round Pick (BKN), 2029 First-Round Pick (DAL via BKN) 

Brooklyn Nets Receive: F Zion Williamson 

In some respects, the careers of Zion Williamson and Ben Simmons have been remarkably similar. 

Both were number-one picks. Each has flashed tremendous potential, and unfortunately, injuries have limited their ability to reach it. 

With that said, there’s a key difference between them. Williamson is an extremely impactful player when healthy.

In recent years, Simmons hasn’t looked like a starting-caliber player when healthy, much less a star. 

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans & Brooklyn Nets Updates

That’s why the Pelicans are getting five unprotected first-round picks here. Perhaps Simmons turns his career around, but even if he doesn’t, this is a fair return for Williamson. 

Unless the Pelicans would prefer a surer thing, of course.