One NBA writer is proposing that the New York Knicks trade Julius Randle to the New Orleans Pelicans for Zion Williamson.
Lee Tran of Fadeaway World proposed that the Knicks trade Randle, Immanuel Quickley, a 2024 first-round pick and a 2025 first-round pick to the Pelicans for Williamson.
“This deal, from the Knicks’ perspective, would definitely be one that is extremely risky but could also end up being rewarding,” Tran wrote. “If Williamson ends up being unhealthy and injury-prone, then the Knicks would end up wasting assets. However, if he manages to have a few healthy seasons, then the Knicks have a realistic championship window.”
“Overall, this deal for the Pelicans would be about becoming a team who can get to the postseason consistently. Though moving Williamson would ultimately decrease the ceiling of what the team can be, the addition of consistent regular-season performers such as Randle and Quickley would allow them to take a step forward.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zion Williamson, Julius Randle, New York Knicks & New Orleans Pelicans Updates
There have been several questions about Williamson’s diet and commitment to basketball since he’s only played 114 out of a possible 308 regular-season games since being drafted by the Pelicans with the first overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft out of Duke. Williamson played in 24 games in his rookie year and 61 games in his sophomore year. The lefty then missed his entire third year and appeared in just 29 games last season.
When he’s been on the court, Williamson has been a superstar. The North Carolina native has career NBA averages of 25.8 points, 7.0 rebounds and 3.6 assists while shooting 60.5% from the floor. However, the Pelicans are only 57-57 when Williamson plays.
Williamson’s college teammate, RJ Barrett, plays for the Knicks. Madison Square Garden is also Williamson’s favorite place to play. Perhaps a change of scenery is what the youngster needs to get his NBA career back on track.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zion Williamson, Julius Randle, New York Knicks & New Orleans Pelicans Updates
Randle, who played one season for the Pelicans in 2018-19, is one of the most durable players in the NBA. The Kentucky product averaged 25.1 points, 10.0 rebounds and 4.1 assists last season. The Pelicans could potentially make some noise in the West with a lineup of CJ McCollum, Brandon Ingram, Randle, Trey Murphy III and Quickley.
Most people around the NBA don’t expect the Pelicans to trade Williamson before the upcoming season starts. However, a trade during the 2023-24 season hasn’t been ruled out.
Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
