The New Orleans Pelicans find themselves at a critical juncture, and it’s crucial to understand why following the Memphis Grizzlies’ blueprint isn’t the answer. While both teams have faced injury-plagued seasons, the similarities end there. The Grizzlies have a proven track record of success, consistently finishing as the second seed in recent years. In contrast, the Pelicans have been a play-in tournament team, even when relatively healthy.
The core issue for New Orleans isn’t just about injuries. Questions persist about the fit between Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, and simply adding an impactful rookie won’t dramatically change the team’s trajectory. Unlike Memphis, which boasts reliable players like Jaren Jackson Jr. and Desmond Bane, the Pelicans lack consistent availability from their stars.
To move forward, New Orleans needs to make deeper, more significant changes. With salary cap constraints looming, trades involving key players like Brandon Ingram or CJ McCollum seem inevitable. Let’s explore two potential trade scenarios for Ingram that could reshape the Pelicans’ future.
Houston Rockets Trade Scenario
A trade with the Houston Rockets could involve sending Brandon Ingram and Daniel Theis in exchange for Steven Adams, Jeff Green, Jayshawn Tate, and Aaron Holiday. While these players may not be exciting additions, the real value lies in the salary cap relief. This move would save the Pelicans about $5.3 million, getting them under the luxury tax without sacrificing young talent like Jordan Hawkins or Jose Alvarado.
The key benefit is financial flexibility. Most of the incoming contracts are expiring deals, potentially clearing significant cap space for future moves. This trade could be a stepping stone, allowing the Pelicans to make additional trades before the deadline to further reshape the roster.
Oklahoma City Thunder Trade Scenario
An alternative trade with the Oklahoma City Thunder could bring Lu Dort, Aaron Wiggins, and Usman Dieng to New Orleans. This deal focuses more on adding depth and defensive prowess to the roster. Dort, a tenacious defender, could form a formidable defensive backcourt with Herb Jones. Wiggins offers three-point shooting off the bench, while Dieng represents a young prospect with potential.
This trade would provide the Pelicans with immediate contributors on team-friendly contracts, potentially improving their competitiveness for the next season. However, it wouldn’t offer the same level of cap relief as the Houston deal.
For more insights and a deeper dive into potential Pelicans trade scenarios, tune into the Locked On Pelicans podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Pelicans Podcast:
• Analysis of the Pelicans’ current roster construction
• Impact of injuries on the team’s performance this season
• Potential long-term strategies for sustainable success