In 2019, EVP David Griffin addressed Anthony Davis with words that now resonate with the current front office of the New Orleans Pelicans. While trade talks often focus on Brandon Ingram, there’s a consideration for deals involving CJ McCollum to build around Zion Williamson. Maximizing value might involve parting ways with both supporting stars.
The Pelicans seem to have benefited from their trade with the Portland Trail Blazers. Acquiring McCollum and Larry Nance Jr. in exchange for future draft picks and players like Josh Hart and Nickeil Alexander-Walker has proved successful.
According to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, McCollum, while not untouchable, is valued for his maturity and positive presence both on and off the court. However, there’s a suggestion that now might be the opportune moment to make a move, particularly for a team wary of exceeding the luxury tax.
The departure of respected veterans raises questions about who will fill their roles in the locker room. McCollum’s impressive stats make him a valuable asset, potentially in a tight market governed by the new CBA.
The Chicago Bulls’ lowered asking price for Zach LaVine presents an intriguing opportunity for the Pelicans. It might not require an All-Star or multiple first-round picks to secure LaVine, whose contract could be seen as burdensome by astute front offices. This could be a chance for the Pelicans to acquire a talented player undervalued by a struggling franchise.
The going-on-33 McCollum served a purpose but has only two seasons left on his contract. The 29-year-old Lavine is locked up for three more years. This is seemingly a deal that makes sense if neither team can find a better trade partner. Griffin said to expect some urgency from the Pelicans during the off-season, so they have to do something to shake things up though, right? Bluffing the Bulls here would at least not require draft assets to be attached.
Calling it even with the Cavaliers
The Pelicans and Cleveland Cavaliers will be linked together all off-season. A McCollum and Darius Garland backcourt is just as small as the Dame Lillard and McCollum pairing in Portland. A McCollum for Garland swap clarifies the hierarchies in both New Orleans and Cleveland. It’s not the sexiest or most creative of trades, but it’s straightforward and simplifies a lot of the summer for both front offices.
The Pelicans would have their point guard and a clear understanding the job is to set the table for Zion Williamson. Those boundaries would be a bit more blurry should the Pelicans pursue an unsettled Donovan Mitchell over Garland, though.
Feeling out the Kings for Fox
The Sacramento Kings are reportedly trying to find a way to boost the supporting cast around Domantis Sabonis and De’Aaron Fox. It’s unlikely to work in a stacked Western Conference. This move may have to wait until the trade deadline but the Kings will have to face the music if they haven’t moved up into a top-six seed by the next All-Star break.
