As the NBA trade deadline approaches, the New Orleans Pelicans find themselves in a precarious position. While much of the trade talk has centered around Brandon Ingram, there’s another move the team must make that doesn’t involve their star forward.
The Pelicans are currently over the luxury tax by $2,111,937, resulting in a hefty bill of over $3 million. For a team with only eight wins, paying the luxury tax is simply not feasible. This reality necessitates a strategic move to shed salary before the February 6th deadline.
While dumping a minimum contract player might seem like the obvious solution, it’s not that simple. The Pelicans need to shed more salary than most minimum contracts would allow. This is where an unexpected name enters the conversation: Jordan Hawkins.
Hawkins, making $4.525 million this season, has struggled to find his footing in the NBA. Despite being touted for his shooting prowess coming out of college, he’s only shooting 32.2% from three-point range this season. His lack of production in other areas of the game further complicates his value to the team.
Trading Hawkins could provide the Pelicans with the salary relief they need while potentially netting a future asset in return. This move would also create room to sign Brandon Boston Jr. to a standard NBA contract, addressing the team’s depth concerns.
The Zach LaVine Conundrum
As the Pelicans prepare to face the Chicago Bulls, speculation about Zach LaVine’s fit in New Orleans has surfaced. While LaVine’s scoring prowess is undeniable, his massive contract presents significant challenges for any potential trade.
However, a surprising trade scenario has emerged: Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum for Zach LaVine and Lonzo Ball. This deal could provide the Pelicans with a dynamic scorer in LaVine while offering salary cap relief through Ball’s expiring contract.
While this trade comes with its own set of complications, it represents the type of creative thinking the Pelicans’ front office must employ as they navigate the upcoming trade deadline.
For more insights and a deeper dive into potential Pelicans trades, tune into the Locked On Pelicans podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Pelicans Podcast:
• Herb Jones injury update and its impact on the team
• Antonio Reeves and Keion Brooks Jr. recalled from G League
• Preview of upcoming game against the Chicago Bulls
