The New Orleans Pelicans have found themselves at a crossroads during the 2025 NBA season. With a 10-32 record, discussions surrounding potential roster changes have taken center stage. From Zion Williamson to Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum, speculation about the Pelicans’ trade plans has created a buzz across the league. Here’s a closer look at the New Orleans Pelicans trade rumors and what the future might hold for the franchise.
A Struggling 2025 Season Leading to New Orleans Pelicans trade rumors
The Pelicans entered the 2025 season with high hopes, boasting a roster filled with talent. However, injuries and inconsistent performances have derailed their campaign. Sitting at the bottom of the Western Conference standings, the team appears to be shifting its focus to the future.
The lack of defensive cohesion and offensive efficiency has highlighted the need for a roster overhaul. This has led to widespread rumors about potential trades, with Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and CJ McCollum at the center of the discussion.
Zion Williamson: The Franchise Star with Questions
A Promising Yet Challenging Journey
Zion Williamson entered the NBA as one of the most hyped draft picks in recent history. We would have never thought he would have made out list of New Orleans Pelicans trade rumors. Zion was selected first overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, he was expected to revolutionize the game with his explosive athleticism and dominant inside play. However, injuries and conditioning issues have limited his availability, leading to frustration among fans and management.
Despite the setbacks, Zion’s potential remains undeniable. When healthy, he’s an unstoppable force, averaging 25+ points and 7 rebounds per game during his active stretches. His ability to finish at the rim and his evolving mid-range game make him a valuable asset for the Pelicans—or any team that might acquire him.
Trade Scenarios
If the Pelicans decide to part ways with Zion, they could attract a significant return. Teams like the New York Knicks or Los Angeles Lakers, markets Zion is rumored to prefer, could offer draft picks and young talent in exchange. However, trading a player of Zion’s caliber is risky, especially considering his potential to return to All-NBA form.
The Case for Keeping Zion
Alternatively, the Pelicans could double down on Zion, focusing on his development, particularly on the defensive end. With improved conditioning and a more consistent presence on the court, Zion could become the cornerstone of a successful rebuild.
Brandon Ingram: A Reliable Scorer in His Prime
Ingram’s Impact
Brandon Ingram, currently in the final year of his contract, has been a consistent scoring option for the Pelicans. Averaging 22 points per game this season, his ability to create his own shot and contribute in clutch situations makes him a valuable asset. To help the team find someone else he has made the list of New Orleans Pelicans Trade Rumors.
Trade Scenarios
Given Ingram’s contract status, he’s a prime candidate for teams looking to bolster their playoff hopes. The Pelicans could leverage his value to acquire draft picks or young players, setting the stage for a rebuild.
Financial Implications
Ingram’s $33 million annual salary accounts for nearly 27% of the team’s salary cap. Trading him would free up significant cap space, allowing the Pelicans to pursue free agents or extend contracts for younger players.
CJ McCollum: Veteran Leadership and Trade Value
McCollum’s Role
Acquired to provide leadership and scoring, CJ McCollum has been a steady presence for the Pelicans. Averaging 18 points and 6 assists per game, he’s proven his worth both on and off the court.
Trade Scenarios
With a $35 million salary taking up 29% of the team’s cap, McCollum could be an attractive option for contenders seeking a reliable veteran guard. Teams like the Milwaukee Bucks or Miami Heat could benefit from his playmaking and experience.
Team Salary Cap and Market Challenges
The New Orleans Pelicans are navigating a precarious financial landscape heading into the 2025 season. Their total payroll stands at approximately $122 million, placing them close to the NBA’s luxury tax threshold. The distribution of this payroll presents a significant challenge, with Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and CJ McCollum accounting for over 70% of the cap space.
Zion Williamson: A High-Stakes Investment
Zion Williamson is the highest-paid player on the team, earning approximately $34 million annually, representing about 28% of the total cap. While his offensive dominance and marketability make him a franchise cornerstone, his availability due to injuries has been a concern. A healthy Zion could justify this expenditure, but the Pelicans are banking on his ability to remain on the court consistently.
Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum: Core Contributors
Brandon Ingram, earning $31 million annually, occupies roughly 25% of the cap. His versatile scoring ability and All-Star credentials make him a vital part of the team’s success. However, questions about his defensive consistency and ability to lead the team in critical moments have emerged.
CJ McCollum, on the other hand, brings veteran leadership and a reliable offensive presence, earning around $29 million annually (roughly 24% of the cap). At 33 years old, McCollum is in the latter stages of his career, which adds urgency for the Pelicans to capitalize on their current roster while he remains productive.
Salary Cap Constraints
With the “Big Three” absorbing such a significant portion of the cap, the Pelicans face challenges in building a well-rounded roster. Role players like Jonas Valančiūnas and Trey Murphy III contribute meaningfully, but the team struggles to address depth concerns and secure impact free agents due to limited financial flexibility.
Looking Ahead
The Pelicans must evaluate whether their current roster construction can lead to sustained success or if significant changes are needed. The team could consider trading one of their stars to free up cap space, acquire additional assets, and realign their financial structure. The 2025 NBA Draft, combined with potential cap-clearing moves, could provide an opportunity to reshape the team while staying competitive.
The Franchise’s Past and Future
A History of Rebuilding
Since their inception as the New Orleans Hornets in 2002, the Pelicans have been no strangers to rebuilding phases. The franchise’s early years revolved around Chris Paul, whose elite playmaking elevated the team to playoff contention. However, his departure in 2011 marked the start of another rebuilding period.
Anthony Davis’ arrival in 2012 ushered in a new era of hope. A generational talent, Davis led the Pelicans to the playoffs in 2015 and 2018, but the lack of a consistent supporting cast and front-office mismanagement led to his trade request and eventual departure in 2019.
Current Challenges and Lessons Learned
The Pelicans’ history highlights a recurring theme: the inability to build and sustain a championship-contending roster around a star player. This pattern raises concerns about the team’s current situation with Zion Williamson. Learning from past missteps, the Pelicans must ensure they create an environment where their stars can thrive both on and off the court.
Building Around a New Core
Should the Pelicans decide to move on from one or more of their stars, they are well-positioned to develop a promising young core.
- Trey Murphy III: A rising star, Murphy has showcased elite three-point shooting and defensive versatility. His ability to stretch the floor and guard multiple positions makes him a valuable asset in today’s NBA.
- Dyson Daniels: At just 20 years old, Daniels has demonstrated playmaking potential and defensive prowess. His growth could accelerate if given more opportunities to lead the team.
- Herb Jones: Known for his tenacity on defense, Jones brings an edge to the Pelicans’ lineup. His ability to guard the league’s best players and contribute offensively makes him a foundational piece.
Future Aspirations
By focusing on player development, draft assets, and strategic trades, the Pelicans could set the stage for sustained success. Whether they choose to rebuild entirely or retool around their young talent, the franchise has the potential to create a competitive and exciting team for years to come.
Rival Teams and New Orleans Pelicans trade rumors
Several teams have the assets to make a deal with the Pelicans:
- New York Knicks: A package including RJ Barrett, Quentin Grimes, and multiple first-round picks could appeal to New Orleans.
- Los Angeles Lakers: Adding Zion to a core of LeBron James and Anthony Davis would create a formidable trio, but the Lakers’ limited assets make this scenario challenging.
- Portland Trail Blazers: Pairing Ingram with Damian Lillard could elevate Portland into contention, with the Pelicans receiving young talent and picks in return.
Draft Picks and the Road Ahead
The New Orleans Pelicans are positioned to leverage a solid set of draft picks for the 2025 NBA Draft. Thanks to previous trades and savvy management, the team has amassed assets that could play a pivotal role in their future, whether through selecting young talent or packaging picks in potential trades.
First-Round Picks
The Pelicans hold their first-round pick for 2025, which, given their current standing, is likely to be a lottery selection. With a strong draft class expected, this pick could land them a franchise-altering player. Prospects like Isaiah Collier or Matas Buzelis could bring the playmaking or versatility the team desperately needs.
In addition, the Pelicans have conditional rights to a first-round pick from the Milwaukee Bucks as part of the Jrue Holiday trade. While this pick is projected to fall later in the first round, it still adds value to their draft capital.
Second-Round Picks
The Pelicans also possess their own second-round pick, as well as an additional second-rounder acquired from the Los Angeles Lakers in previous dealings. These picks can be used to target high-potential players who may need time to develop or to include in trade packages to sweeten the pot.
Trade Leverage
Draft picks are among the most valuable assets in the NBA, and the Pelicans could use their 2025 haul to reshape their roster. With two potential first-round picks and multiple second-rounders, they have the flexibility to pursue deals for established stars or move up in the draft to secure a high-priority prospect.
Building Through the Draft
Given the uncertainty surrounding the futures of Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and CJ McCollum, the draft represents a crucial opportunity for the Pelicans. Adding young, cost-controlled talent could alleviate salary cap concerns and provide a foundation for sustained success.
With their draft assets, the Pelicans have a unique chance to either rebuild their roster or enhance their current core. How they utilize these picks will be a defining factor in their future, making the 2025 NBA Draft a must-watch event for Pelicans fans.
The New Orleans Pelicans trade rumors highlight a pivotal moment for the franchise. Whether they choose to rebuild around Zion or embrace a full-scale reset, the decisions made in the coming weeks will shape their trajectory for years to come.
With the trade deadline looming, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the Pelicans navigate this critical juncture. Whether it’s through blockbuster trades or a renewed commitment to their current roster, one thing is certain: the Pelicans’ future is anything but predictable.
