Sometimes, an NBA team needs a creative solution. They’ve got a problem, and the obvious solution isn’t attractive. Perhaps they could figure something else out?
Look at the New Orleans Pelicans. Rumors are suggesting that they’ll look to move one of Zion Williamson or Brandon Ingram this summer. To be sure, this roster is expensive. The Pelicans have little flexibility to improve the group around their pair of forwards.
Could they find a creative solution? If the Pelicans could find a taker for CJ McCollum’s contract, they might be able to keep Williamson and Ingram. Could the Orlando Magic be interested in McCollum?
NBA Trade Proposal
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: F/C Jonathan Isaac, G Markelle Fultz, G/F Joe Ingles
Orlando Magic Receive: G CJ McCollum, 2025 First-Round Pick (Lottery Protected – NOP)
NBA teams face several different problems. Sometimes, they have financial woes. A team will look to avoid the second apron of the luxury tax unless they look like clear title contenders.
On the other hand, some problems are on the floor. Even some of the most talented teams in the NBA have easily identified issues. They need to solve something in terms of their roster construction.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: CJ McCollum, New Orleans Pelicans, Orlando Magic Updates
Look at the Magic. This team has one of the most exciting young cores in the league. Still, they could stand to improve their floor spacing. Would McCollum help?
Why The Orlando Magic Do The Deal
McCollum’s contract won’t be desirable to everyone. The Magic may be an exception. Paolo Banchero is their offensive centerpiece, and he’s on a rookie deal. By the time he’s due for his extension, McCollum will be on an expiring deal.
The Magic could move it. Alternatively, they could eat the luxury tax for just one year. Either way, McCollum solves a lot of their short-term problems. He’s a knockdown three-point shooter who can also serve as a secondary playmaker for this team.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: CJ McCollum, New Orleans Pelicans, Orlando Magic Updates
Meanwhile, Orlando is also getting a lottery protected first for absorbing his contract. Even if they’re weary of taking on his deal, they may not be able to pass on that opportunity. Should the Pelicans give the that chance?
Why The New Orleans Pelicans Do The Deal
No team likes dumping a salary. Making a trade just to clean up your books is depressing. Still, something has to give in New Orleans. Meanwhile, the team has been playing well with Williamson and Ingram lately.
This team helps them keep both. They’re flipping McCollum for three expiring contracts. At the same time, they could find a use for each of these players.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: CJ McCollum, New Orleans Pelicans, Orlando Magic Updates
After all, Isaac has looked like an elite defender when healthy. The Pelicans could use a point guard like Fultz, and Joe Ingles can still contribute in limited minutes. That sounds like a creative solution to us.
