The Pelicans are off to a pretty rough start this season with a 3-8 record, not exactly what fans were hoping for. Injuries have hit hard; Zion Williamson’s been in and out, Brandon Ingram’s missed games with knee issues, and new addition Dejounte Murray, who came over in the offseason with high hopes, has also been sidelined. Dejounte was supposed to be the guy adding defensive grit and another playmaker next to Zion, but with him dealing with early injury setbacks, the team just hasn’t been able to find any rhythm.
At this point, it feels like the Pelicans need to focus on building a roster that works for Zion, plain and simple. The idea of moving on from Ingram on an expiring deal could be tough, but if it means building a team that can actually contend in the West, it might be time to make that call. The goal? Give Zion a lineup that can help him dominate and, finally, get the Pelicans back to being a serious playoff threat.
A Bold Move With Brandon Ingram In Golden State
Pelicans receive: Andrew Wiggins, Brandin Podziemski, 2026 First-Round Pick
Warriors receive: Brandon Ingram
In a potential scenario, the Pelicans could look to shake things up by moving Brandon Ingram to the Golden State Warriors in exchange for Andrew Wiggins, sophomore Brandin Podziemski, and a 2026 first-round pick. The concept behind this trade would be to set both teams up with rosters better suited to their goals for the season and beyond.
Ingram, currently putting up 22.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game, would bring an intriguing scoring and playmaking boost to Golden State. His expiring contract could give the Warriors flexibility this season; if he meshes well with Steph Curry and complements the team’s pace, they might look to keep him around. If not, the Warriors could let him walk in the offseason, opening up significant cap space.
For the Pelicans, acquiring Wiggins and Podziemski would provide a different dynamic. Wiggins, who’s averaging 15.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists, could fit alongside Zion as a more defense-focused wing who doesn’t require the same touches as Ingram. Wiggins is under contract through 2025-26, meaning New Orleans would get a steady wing presence for a few more seasons without immediate contract renewal pressures.
Adding Podziemski would also bring developmental upside to New Orleans. This season, the young guard is averaging 8.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists, showing flashes of playmaking and scoring potential. With room to grow and potential opportunities on a developing Pelicans team, Podziemski could emerge as a solid contributor in the years ahead. Including him in a trade for Ingram would indicate Golden State’s willingness to leverage young talent in favor of immediate impact.
Golden State’s decision here would reflect their pursuit of another reliable scorer. Buddy Hield’s recent stellar performances have made him a vital piece in their early run to the top spots of the West, with Podziemski possibly on the table as Hield might earn even more minutes and touches. Although the Warriors ultimately passed on trading Podziemski for Lauri Markkanen due to Utah’s high asking price, Ingram’s expiring deal could be more enticing with his production and potential fit, balancing both impact and financial flexibility.
This move would allow Golden State to test Ingram as a scoring relief for Curry and see if he could complement the Warriors’ system. For New Orleans, it would add stability with Wiggins’ contract and youth with Podziemski’s development, along with a future first-round pick to work with in building around Zion.
Ultimately, this trade could give the Warriors an offensive boost, while the Pelicans would gain flexibility, defense, and young talent as they continue building toward a more cohesive team around Zion.
A Big Swing Bringing In Jimmy Butler
Pelicans receive: Jimmy Butler
Heat receive: CJ McCollum, Herbert Jones, Daniel Theis, 2025 First-Round Pick (via MIL)
The Pelicans are looking to make a splash, and bringing in Jimmy Butler could be that bold move. Butler’s known for being a playoff killer—his reputation as a clutch performer in the postseason is undeniable. He’s the kind of player who flips a switch come April, which could be exactly what New Orleans needs to take a step forward. But let’s be real: this season, Jimmy isn’t exactly lighting it up in the regular season.
Butler’s 16.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game, not bad numbers, but a big dip compared to his usual production. His shooting has been a bit off, too, hovering around 47.8% from the field and a rough 15.4% from beyond the arc. It’s clear he’s not having his best regular season, but we know Jimmy often saves his best for the postseason. That’s why the Pelicans might be willing to overlook the current stats in exchange for what Butler could bring when it matters most.
There’s also the contract factor. Butler is on an expiring deal, and there’s a strong feeling around the league that he’ll test free agency. He’s 34 and may be looking for one last big contract, so the Pelicans would have to weigh the risk of him potentially being a rental. If Butler walks in the offseason, the Pelicans could be out McCollum, Jones, and a first-round pick for just a few months of Jimmy Buckets. But on the flip side, they’d open up significant cap space to make a play for other stars or bolster their roster around Zion.
For the Heat, this trade package gives them a solid return. CJ McCollum would bring reliable scoring and veteran leadership, something they’ll need with Jimmy gone. McCollum’s putting up 18.8 points, 4.0 assists, and 3.5 rebounds this season and could fit well next to Bam Adebayo. Herbert Jones would add defense and youth, two valuable assets for the Heat as they look to stay competitive in the East. Daniel Theis provides some depth in the frontcourt, and the 2025 first-round pick could be a valuable future asset with the Bucks in a horrific 13th place.
In a way, this trade gives both teams what they need: the Pelicans get a playoff-proven leader in Butler who could help them make a serious playoff run, and the Heat get younger while adding a reliable scorer in McCollum. It’s a high-risk, high-reward move for New Orleans, but if they’re serious about making noise in the West, this might be the kind of gamble worth taking.
The Pelicans Make A Smart Play For Walker Kessler
Pelicans receive: Walker Kessler
Jazz receive: Javonte Green, Jaylen Nowell, Karlo Matković, 2026 First-Round Pick (Swap via MIL), 2027 First-Round Pick (via MIL)
The Pelicans might be aiming to add a defensive anchor to their frontcourt, and Walker Kessler would be a solid addition. Rumors have swirled around the league that the Jazz are open to trading Kessler, but they’re reportedly seeking two first-round picks in exchange. That’s where New Orleans has a real opportunity here, with two intriguing picks from the Milwaukee Bucks. Given the Bucks’ shaky 2-8 start this season, those future picks could be extremely valuable if Milwaukee fails to stay competitive in the coming years, especially if Giannis Antetokounmpo decides to move on or if the team falls into a rebuild.
This season, Kessler has been a reliable force in the paint, averaging 9.2 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game. His ability to protect the rim and secure boards makes him a perfect fit for a Pelicans team that’s in need of a young, defensive-minded center. With his 7’1” frame and mobility, Kessler should be able to anchor a New Orleans defense that’s been inconsistent at best. Pairing him alongside Zion Williamson would give the Pelicans a formidable frontcourt that combines shot-blocking and rebounding with Zion’s scoring punch.
The Jazz, meanwhile, would receive a mix of depth and future assets. Javonte Green is a versatile defender, and Jaylen Nowell can provide some scoring punch off the bench. Karlo Matković is a young center who could develop further with Utah’s player development program. However, the real centerpiece of this trade for the Jazz would be those Milwaukee picks. With the Bucks’ uncertain future and the possibility of Giannis leaving, these picks could hold significant value if Milwaukee ends up in the lottery in the next few years.
If Utah is truly looking to reset and build around its young core, trading Kessler for a package centered around high-value draft assets makes sense. Kessler’s presence would undoubtedly be missed, but this trade would give the Jazz the kind of flexibility they’re looking for to rebuild over time.
For New Orleans, bringing in Kessler could be a game-changer for their defense and give them a young center who’s only going to improve. If Kessler continues to develop as expected, the Pelicans would secure a defensive anchor who could grow alongside Zion, making this a high-upside move for both their short-term competitiveness and long-term growth.
The New Look Pelicans Would Be A Great Team
Lineup: Dejounte Murray, Brandin Podziemski, Jimmy Butler, Zion Williamson, Walker Kessler
Bench: Jose Alvarado, Jordan Hawkins, Trey Murphy III, Andrew Wiggins, Yves Missi, Brandon Boston Jr.
This revamped Pelicans squad has the potential to turn some serious heads in the Western Conference. With Dejounte Murray running the show at point guard and Jimmy Butler bringing his no-nonsense, playoff-proven mentality, this lineup looks ready for a deep run. Zion Williamson would finally have a well-rounded supporting cast, and Walker Kessler as the starting center brings that much-needed rim protection. Brandin Podziemski, a young guard with excellent playmaking and shooting potential, fills out the starting five, adding another solid ball-handler and floor spacer.
One of the best aspects of this setup is that the Pelicans get to hold onto both Trey Murphy III and Jordan Hawkins—two elite young shooters who complement Zion’s game perfectly. Murphy has proven to be deadly from deep, forcing defenses to respect the perimeter and giving Zion more room to operate inside. Hawkins is already showing his potential as a reliable shooter, and keeping him means that the Pelicans retain another young piece who can grow into a consistent offensive threat.
With Andrew Wiggins coming off the bench, the Pelicans add a seasoned scorer and defender as their sixth man. Wiggins brings versatility, experience, and consistency—everything you want in a top bench option. He can defend multiple positions and score at will, making him the perfect weapon to deploy when the starters need a break. Having someone like Wiggins in this role would give the Pelicans a deep rotation and keep the pressure on opponents throughout the game.
Yves Missi is another exciting prospect, bringing athleticism and defensive energy to the second unit. Missi has the potential to develop into a player like Clint Capela—a high-energy rim-runner who can protect the paint, grab rebounds, and finish lobs. With time, he could become a valuable defensive piece off the bench, giving the Pelicans a reliable backup big who can lock down the interior.
Jose Alvarado leads the second unit with his relentless energy and pesky defense. Known for his scrappy play, Alvarado can disrupt opposing guards and provide a spark every time he steps on the court. His playmaking and defensive tenacity add a unique flavor to the bench and set the tone for a high-energy second unit.
With Brandon Boston Jr. rounding out the rotation, the Pelicans would have a well-balanced mix of shooters, defenders, and playmakers on their bench. Boston brings potential as a young scorer who could step in and add points in short bursts, giving New Orleans another weapon to keep things competitive even when the starters are resting.
All in all, this new-look Pelicans team has everything it needs to make a serious run. With star power in the starting lineup, depth on the bench, and a blend of youth and experience, this squad could be a nightmare matchup for any opponent in the playoffs. A lineup like this has the potential to not only secure a strong playoff spot but also make waves deep into the postseason.
