Pelicans Trade Targets: Who Will They Acquire?

The New Orleans Pelicans, a team brimming with potential yet seemingly always on the cusp of contention, find themselves at an interesting juncture. With a core built around Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, the Pelicans are undeniably talented. But, to truly elevate themselves into the upper echelons of the Western Conference, strategic trades might be necessary. So, let's dive into potential trade targets for the Pelicans, analyzing what they need and who might be available.

Addressing the Pelicans' Needs

Before we start throwing out names, it's crucial to pinpoint exactly what the Pelicans are lacking. While Williamson and Ingram provide a dynamic scoring punch, there are definitely some areas where they could use some serious upgrades and that needs to happen via trades.

• Shooting: Consistent three-point shooting remains a perennial need for New Orleans. Too often, defenses can sag off non-shooters, clogging the paint and making life difficult for Zion and BI. Finding players who can reliably knock down open looks would do wonders for their offensive spacing.
• Defense: While they have flashes of brilliance, the Pelicans' defense can be inconsistent. Adding a defensive-minded wing or guard who can lock down opponents and provide help rotations would be a massive boost. Someone who can disrupt passing lanes, contest shots, and generally make life difficult for opposing offenses.
• Playmaking: While Ingram is a capable playmaker, the Pelicans sometimes lack a true floor general who can orchestrate the offense, make smart decisions in crunch time, and consistently set up teammates. A point guard with excellent court vision and passing skills would be a welcome addition.
• Rim Protection: While Jonas Valanciunas is a solid center, adding another rim protector to pair with or back him up is always beneficial. A shot-blocking presence in the paint can deter opponents from driving to the basket and provide valuable help defense.

Potential Trade Targets

Alright, now for the fun part! Let's look at some players who might be available via trade and who could address the Pelicans' needs:

1. Dejounte Murray (Atlanta Hawks)

Dejounte Murray is a dynamic guard currently playing for the Atlanta Hawks. Murray is someone who immediately springs to mind when considering potential Pelicans trade targets. He is a proven scorer, a tenacious defender, and an excellent playmaker. His ability to create his own shot, disrupt passing lanes, and set up teammates would make him an ideal fit alongside Zion and Ingram. The big question, of course, is what the Hawks would want in return, and whether the Pelicans have the assets to make a deal work. Also, concerns about Murray's fit alongside another ball-dominant guard like Trae Young in Atlanta might make him available, and the Pelicans should definitely be on the phone if that's the case. The Hawks would likely ask for a significant package, potentially including draft picks and young players with high upside, but the potential reward of pairing Murray with Zion and Ingram could be worth the risk.

2. OG Anunoby (Toronto Raptors)

If the Pelicans are looking to bolster their defense, OG Anunoby is an elite option. He's a versatile wing who can guard multiple positions, knock down three-pointers at a respectable clip, and provide a valuable scoring punch. His defensive prowess would be a perfect complement to Zion and Ingram, and he would immediately elevate the Pelicans' perimeter defense. He could guard the opposing team's best player, freeing up Ingram and others to focus on offense. The Raptors have been hesitant to trade Anunoby in the past, but if they decide to rebuild, he could be available. The Pelicans would likely have to offer a substantial package to acquire him, but his defensive impact would be well worth the cost.

3. Malcolm Brogdon (Portland Trail Blazers)

Malcolm Brogdon is a combo guard with a proven track record of scoring, playmaking, and shooting. While he has struggled with injuries at times, when healthy, he is a very valuable asset. He could provide the Pelicans with a reliable scoring option off the bench, as well as a secondary playmaker to take some of the pressure off of Ingram. His ability to play both on and off the ball would make him a versatile fit in the Pelicans' offense. Brogdon's experience and leadership would also be valuable assets for a young team like the Pelicans. The Trail Blazers might be willing to move him for the right price, as they continue to rebuild around their younger players. The Pelicans should definitely explore the possibility of adding Brogdon to their roster.

4. Dorian Finney-Smith (Brooklyn Nets)

Dorian Finney-Smith is a tough, defensive-minded wing who can knock down three-pointers and provide valuable hustle plays. He's the kind of player who does all the little things that contribute to winning basketball. He wouldn't be a flashy addition, but he would bring a much-needed dose of toughness and defensive versatility to the Pelicans' roster. Finney-Smith is a proven winner and a respected veteran, and his presence would be a positive influence on the Pelicans' young players. The Nets might be willing to move him for the right price, as they continue to evaluate their roster. The Pelicans should consider adding Finney-Smith to their team as a valuable role player who can contribute on both ends of the court.

5. T.J. McConnell (Indiana Pacers)

For those who think the New Orleans Pelicans should focus more on defense, T.J. McConnell is a pesky, defensive-minded point guard who can disrupt opposing offenses and create turnovers. He's not a scorer, but he's a terrific playmaker and a tenacious defender. He would bring a different dimension to the Pelicans' backcourt, providing a spark off the bench and setting the tone with his hustle and energy. McConnell is a highly underrated player, and his impact often goes beyond the box score. The Pacers might be willing to move him for the right price, as they continue to develop their younger players. The Pelicans should consider adding McConnell to their roster as a valuable role player who can contribute on the defensive end.

What Would the Pelicans Have to Give Up?

Of course, acquiring any of these players would require the Pelicans to part with some assets. Here's a look at what they might have to offer:

• Draft Picks: The Pelicans have a decent collection of draft picks, including their own future first-rounders and some potential second-rounders. These picks could be valuable in trade negotiations, especially for teams looking to rebuild.
• Young Players: The Pelicans have a few intriguing young players who could be attractive to other teams, such as Dyson Daniels, and Jordan Hawkins. These players have potential upside and could be valuable assets in trade talks.
• Salary Filler: To make the salaries match in a trade, the Pelicans might have to include players like Jonas Valanciunas or Larry Nance Jr. in the deal. These players are solid contributors, but they might be expendable if it means acquiring a star player.

The Importance of Patience and Prudence

While it's tempting to make a splashy trade, the Pelicans need to be patient and prudent. They can't afford to mortgage their future for a short-term fix. They need to carefully evaluate their options and make sure they're acquiring the right player who fits their long-term vision. Making the right trade could propel the Pelicans into contention, while making the wrong trade could set them back for years. It's a delicate balancing act, and the Pelicans need to approach it with caution and wisdom.

Final Thoughts

The New Orleans Pelicans have the potential to be a special team. With Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram leading the way, they have a bright future. But to truly reach their potential, they need to make smart, strategic trades. By addressing their needs and targeting the right players, the Pelicans can elevate themselves into the upper echelon of the Western Conference and compete for a championship. It's going to be an interesting season for the Pelicans, and it will be fascinating to see what moves they make to improve their team. What do you guys think? Which of these players would be the best fit for the Pelicans?