As the 2025 NBA trade deadline approaches, the New Orleans Pelicans face a pivotal moment in their franchise’s history. Once seen as a team with a promising future, the Pelicans now find themselves struggling at 11-32, near the bottom of the Western Conference. Injuries and unfulfilled expectations have plagued their 2024-25 season, forcing the organization to confront its current state of mediocrity.
For the Pelicans, the trade deadline represents not just an opportunity to salvage what’s left of this season but a chance to chart a new course toward sustainable success. Bold moves are essential, and two significant trades stand out as potential game-changers for the franchise.
1. Trade Zion Williamson for a Fresh Start
While trading Zion Williamson might seem drastic, it has become an increasingly logical step for New Orleans. Zion’s tenure has been marred by injuries and controversies, most recently including a suspension for poor conduct. A trade to the Golden State Warriors could provide the Pelicans with a much-needed reset.
In this scenario, New Orleans could receive Jonathan Kuminga, Andrew Wiggins, and additional assets. Kuminga, a young and athletic forward, offers tremendous upside with his defensive potential and ability in transition. Wiggins, meanwhile, brings veteran experience, a championship pedigree, and reliable scoring. This deal would allow the Pelicans to refocus on building around a younger, more cohesive core, including players like Trey Murphy III, Herb Jones, and Yves Missi.
By moving Zion, the Pelicans could finally turn the page on a tumultuous era and lay the foundation for a more stable and promising future.
2. Move Herb Jones for Assets
Herb Jones has solidified himself as one of the league’s best defensive wings, with his versatility and instincts making him invaluable on that end of the floor. However, his timeline may not align with the Pelicans’ need for a full rebuild. Trading Jones now could help maximize his value and secure assets for the future.
The Dallas Mavericks, in pursuit of a championship, are a logical trade partner. A potential deal could bring Jaden Hardy, Quentin Grimes, and future first-round picks to New Orleans. The Mavericks would gain an elite defender to complement Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving, addressing their struggles against top-tier wing players in previous playoff runs.
For the Pelicans, such a trade would provide young talent and draft capital, aligning with their long-term rebuilding goals. While losing Jones would be difficult, it would ultimately serve the team’s broader objectives.
A New Chapter for the Pelicans
The Pelicans are at a critical juncture, and the 2025 trade deadline presents an opportunity to reshape their future. Trading Zion Williamson and Herb Jones would be bold moves, but they represent necessary steps toward a full-scale rebuild. These trades would not only bring in valuable assets and cap flexibility but also enable the franchise to reset its identity and align its roster for long-term success.
By prioritizing a strategic rebuild over short-term fixes, New Orleans can create a foundation for sustained competitiveness in the years to come.
