The New Orleans Pelicans have struggled so far in the 2024-25 NBA season, holding a putrid 5-20 record and ranking last in points scored (105.0 PPG), 23rd in defense (116.7 OPPG), and 29th in net rating (-11.9). They have sorely missed injury-prone stars Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, but their play has been inexcusable which is why head coach Willie Green could be on the hot seat.
It is also no wonder that two of the Pelicans’ key players, Herbert Jones and CJ McCollum, are targets for some NBA teams who are keenly interested in acquiring them. The Pelicans cannot continue the season as-is because it has gone sour very fast, and changes have to be made sooner rather than later to get the season back on track.
With only a few months in the season, the Pelicans might have to take some measures to move on from both Jones and McCollum and we have three potential destinations for each player.
Lakers Create A New Big Three
Proposed Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: CJ McCollum
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino
The Lakers would create a dynamic new Big Three by acquiring CJ McCollum to complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis. McCollum’s scoring prowess (currently averaging 20.3 points and 3.9 assists per game) would provide the Lakers with a reliable third offensive option. His ability to create his own shot and knock down perimeter jumpers would take pressure off James and Davis, allowing them to focus on dominating their respective areas of the court. McCollum’s veteran experience and leadership could also bolster the team’s playoff aspirations.
In return, the Pelicans would receive a mix of talent and flexibility. D’Angelo Russell, despite some inconsistency, is an effective scorer and playmaker, averaging 12.9 points and 5.1 assists per game this season. Gabe Vincent would provide the Pelicans with a defensive-minded guard who can hit timely three-pointers when he is in form, while Jalen Hood-Schifino represents a promising young player with upside. This package offers the Pelicans an opportunity to retool their backcourt while maintaining competitiveness.
For the Lakers, this trade not only adds offensive firepower but also ensures they remain a contender in the competitive Western Conference. McCollum’s fit alongside James and Davis would allow the team to address their offensive inconsistencies and maintain their championship window. While the loss of Russell and Vincent could hurt their depth, McCollum’s scoring and playmaking more than make up for it.
Pistons Look To Improve ASAP With CJ McCollum
Proposed Trade Details
Detroit Pistons Receive: CJ McCollum
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: Isiaha Stewart, Tim Hardaway Jr., 2030 First-Round Pick
The Pistons, eager to accelerate their rebuild, could make a major statement by acquiring CJ McCollum. Adding a seasoned scorer like McCollum would provide Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey with a proven mentor while boosting Detroit’s offensive production. McCollum’s ability to operate as a primary or secondary playmaker would give the Pistons’ young stars a reliable veteran presence who can also lead them in crucial moments.
The Pelicans, in turn, would receive a strong return. Isiaha Stewart is a tough, versatile big man averaging 6.2 points and 6.1 rebounds per game, providing New Orleans with a much-needed interior presence. Tim Hardaway Jr. would give the Pelicans a capable shooter and floor-spacer who can contribute immediately. Additionally, the 2030 first-round pick adds future draft capital, allowing New Orleans to bolster their long-term rebuilding efforts.
This trade makes sense for both sides. The Pistons would significantly improve their offense and leadership, while the Pelicans would gain a mix of young talent, veteran presence, and future assets. McCollum’s scoring and leadership could help Detroit compete for a playoff spot sooner than anticipated.
Magic Continue Pushing For The Playoffs Without Paolo Banchero
Proposed Trade Details
Orlando Magic Receive: CJ McCollum
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: Jonathan Isaac, Tristan da Silva, 2026 First-Round Pick
Despite the absence of Paolo Banchero, the Orlando Magic are determined to remain competitive in the playoff race. Adding CJ McCollum would solidify their backcourt, giving them a dynamic scorer and playmaker who can ease the offensive burden on Franz Wagner and Banchero when he returns. McCollum’s experience and leadership would also benefit Orlando’s young core as they aim to solidify their playoff position.
In this trade, the Pelicans would acquire Jonathan Isaac, a defensive specialist who, when healthy, is capable of guarding multiple positions. Isaac’s 1.4 blocks and 0.9 steals per game highlight his defensive impact, which could help the Pelicans shore up their defensive struggles. Tristan da Silva, a promising young prospect, and a 2026 first-round pick would further sweeten the deal for New Orleans, giving them additional flexibility for their rebuild.
This deal allows the Magic to add immediate firepower without mortgaging their future, while the Pelicans gain defensive help, young talent, and draft capital. McCollum’s veteran presence would make Orlando a serious playoff contender in the Eastern Conference.
Mavericks Continue Building A Championship Roster
Proposed Trade Details
Dallas Mavericks Receive: Herbert Jones
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: Quentin Grimes, Jaden Hardy, Olivier-Maxence Prosper, 2025 First-Round Pick
The Mavericks’ acquisition of Herbert Jones would be a significant boost to their defensive capabilities. Jones, a defensive ace who averages 1.9 steals and 0.6 blocks per game, would complement Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving by taking on the toughest defensive assignments. His versatility and high basketball IQ would fit seamlessly into Dallas’s system, addressing one of their biggest weaknesses.
The Pelicans, meanwhile, would receive Quentin Grimes, Jaden Hardy, and Olivier-Maxence Prosper, three young players with upside. Grimes, a sharpshooting guard, is averaging 8.5 points per game on 40.7% three-point shooting and would provide the Pelicans with much-needed floor spacing. Hardy, a dynamic scorer, and Prosper, a promising wing, would give New Orleans a solid foundation for their rebuild. The inclusion of a 2025 first-round pick ensures additional long-term value.
This trade benefits both teams as the Mavericks solidify their roster for a championship push, while the Pelicans gain valuable assets to focus on their future. Jones’s defensive presence would make Dallas a more balanced and formidable team in the playoffs.
Warriors Add Elite Defensive Wing
Proposed Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Herbert Jones
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: Gary Payton II, Moses Moody, 2027 First-Round Pick
The Warriors would make a statement by acquiring Herbert Jones, an elite defensive wing, to complement their already strong defensive identity. Jones would thrive in Golden State’s system around Stephen Curry, where his defensive versatility and ability to guard multiple positions could elevate the team’s overall defensive performance. Averaging 1.9 steals per game, Jones would provide a significant boost to the Warriors’ perimeter defense, allowing them to better contain the league’s top scorers.
In return, the Pelicans would receive Gary Payton II and Moses Moody, two valuable assets. Payton’s defensive tenacity is well-documented, and he could serve as a veteran leader for a rebuilding New Orleans team. Moody, a young and promising player, has shown flashes of his potential with his three-point shooting and versatility. The addition of a 2027 first-round pick gives the Pelicans another asset to use for their long-term plans.
This trade allows the Warriors to fortify their defense while maintaining their championship aspirations. For the Pelicans, it represents an opportunity to gain valuable assets while moving forward with a clear rebuilding strategy.
Lakers Aim To Improve Defense With Herbert Jones
Proposed Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Herbert Jones
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: Rui Hachimura, 2029 First-Round Pick
The Lakers’ acquisition of Herbert Jones would address their defensive struggles and provide them with a versatile wing capable of guarding elite scorers. Jones’s defensive prowess and energy would be a perfect fit alongside Anthony Davis and LeBron James, helping the Lakers climb the defensive rankings. His skill of disrupting passing lanes and protect the rim would also complement the team’s overall strategy.
In exchange, the Pelicans would receive Rui Hachimura, a talented forward who can score efficiently (12.6 points per game on 50.0% shooting) and bring size to the frontcourt. The inclusion of a 2029 first-round pick offers the Pelicans a valuable long-term asset as they rebuild. Hachimura’s offensive versatility would be a welcome addition for a Pelicans team lacking consistent scoring options.
This trade benefits both sides, as the Lakers gain a defensive stopper to complement their stars, while the Pelicans add a promising player and a future draft pick to help accelerate their rebuild. Jones’s presence would significantly elevate the Lakers’ defense, giving them a better chance to contend in the competitive Western Conference.
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