New Orleans Pelicans Receive: F/C Ben Simmons, 2025 First-Round Pick (PHX via BKN), 2027 First-Round Pick (PHI via BKN), 2029 First-Round Pick (DAL via BKN), 2030 First-Round Pick (BKN) 

Brooklyn Nets receive: F Zion Williamson 

There are two players in this deal in fact who were supposed to be the offensive leaders. In the case of Williamson, the jury is still out.

In the event that he can get his body right, he is likely to make multiple All-NBA teams during his career. There is still a chance that Williamson will win the MVP award. 

By now, it would be fair to say that Simmons does not. As a result of injuries, his ceiling has also been limited. Having said that, they’re not the only obstacles he has to overcome. 

It has long been a talking point about Simmons’ inability to hit a jump shot. His broader game seems to be affected by it as well. As Simmons lacks confidence in his jumper, he tends to play passively in other areas of the game as a result. 

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

Simmons’ inability to make free throws on a consistent basis has even made what was once an aggressive driver into a passive liability.

Is there a possibility that the Pelicans could make a move for him anyway?