The way that the New Orleans Pelicans played in the second half of the season impressed everyone around the league. They went from struggling to even make it to the play-in tournament to playing incredibly well in the playoffs.
With them clinching the eighth seed in the Western Conference meant facing off against the number 1 seed Phoenix Suns in the playoffs. Now, on paper, the matchup looked pretty easy for the Suns, and most expected them to sweep the Pelicans.
But in reality, the Pelicans gave everything they had and won two games in the series. Although the Suns proved to be too much for the Pelicans at the end and won the series 4-2, it was certainly an enjoyable series for fans.
Moreover, considering the fact that the Pelicans played without Zion Williamson, who was still recovering from an injury, further glorifies their efforts. The aftermath of Williamson missing the crucial series and the entire season is that many are wondering if the Pelicans should trade Zion.
While Zion was expected to one day, lead the franchise to a title, in his short career with the Pelicans he has played a very few games and has been constantly struggling with injuries.
Keeping that in mind, NBA analyst Ben Stinar has suggested a blockbuster trade idea that will send Zion to the Portland Trail Blazers in exchange for Damian Lillard.
“Idea: Pelicans trade Zion Williamson to Portland for Dame Lillard.
They’ve played fantastic without Zion, and he’s long-term injury risk.
Dame + CJ have never played with a player near the caliber of Brandon Ingram (could be the missing piece).
Blazers get 21 year old all star.”
Idea: Pelicans trade Zion Williamson to Portland for Dame Lillard
They’ve played fantastic without Zion, and he’s long-term injury risk.
Dame + CJ have never played with a player near the caliber of Brandon Ingram (could be the missing piece)
Blazers get 21 year old all star
— Ben Stinar (@BenStinar) April 28, 2022
This is an intriguing trade idea proposed by Stinar. As he mentioned, the Pelicans have done pretty well even without Zion.
So maybe it is time for them to move on from the 21-year-old? After all, he is a huge injury risk in long term.
Additionally, Dame and CJ McCollum played together for almost a decade while donning the Blazers jersey. But they failed to win a championship together due to the clear absence of another star.
If the Pelicans reunite the duo with Brandon Ingram on the roster as well, the sky could be the limit for the franchise.
It seems like a win-win situation, but if Zion is looking for a move away from the Pelicans, he will most probably expect to play for a larger market and the Blazers can’t provide that.
