The NBA offseason always brings a flurry of trade rumors, and this summer is no different. One of the most intriguing potential deals floating around involves a three-team swap between the Golden State Warriors, New Orleans Pelicans, and Portland Trail Blazers. Imagine this: Brandon Ingram suiting up for the Warriors, Deandre Ayton bringing his skills to the Pelicans, and Andrew Wiggins adding firepower to the Blazers’ lineup.
This trade idea is not just a wild fantasy but a strategic move that could benefit all parties involved. The Warriors are looking to maximize their championship window, the Pelicans need a dominant big man to complement Zion Williamson and brand new star Dejounte Murray, while the Blazers are in desperate need of a versatile scorer. Current rumors suggest the Warriors are in serious discussions about potential trades involving Lauri Markkanen, showcasing their willingness to make bold moves to strengthen their roster.
Trade Proposal
Warriors receive: Brandon Ingram
Pelicans receive: Deandre Ayton, Toumani Camara
Blazers receive: Andrew Wiggins, Gary Payton II, 2026 first-round pick (Warriors)
The Warriors Find Another Star Next To Steph Curry
The Golden State Warriors are at a pivotal point this offseason. With Klay Thompson’s departure, they have been active in reshaping their roster to keep their championship aspirations alive. The Warriors recently secured sharpshooter Buddy Hield in a sign-and-trade deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, giving them a reliable three-point threat to pair with Steph Curry.
Adding Buddy Hield is a significant move, but the Warriors are not stopping there. The acquisition of Brandon Ingram from the New Orleans Pelicans could be the next big step. Ingram, a versatile forward, has been at the center of trade discussions, primarily due to the Pelicans’ reluctance to offer him a max extension. This situation has made Ingram a prime candidate for a trade, with several teams, including the Sacramento Kings, showing interest.
For the Warriors, bringing in Ingram would provide them with another dynamic scorer who can create his own shot, facilitate for others, and play alongside Curry. This addition would help fill the void left by Thompson and add more offensive firepower to the roster. Ingram’s potential fit with the Warriors is promising, as his skill set complements Curry’s playstyle, making Golden State even more formidable in the Western Conference.
Ingram’s departure from the Pelicans would not only help the Warriors but also allow New Orleans to focus on building a team around Zion Williamson and newly acquired Deandre Ayton. Meanwhile, the Portland Trail Blazers would gain a versatile defender in Andrew Wiggins and a valuable pick for their rebuild.
This hypothetical trade scenario showcases the strategic moves that can benefit all involved teams, aligning their respective goals and strengthening their rosters for the upcoming season.
The Pelicans Secure Their Long-Sought Center
The New Orleans Pelicans have been busy this offseason, making significant moves to reshape their roster. With Jonas Valanciunas signing with the Washington Wizards, the Pelicans have a glaring need at the center position. To address this, they recently acquired All-Star point guard Dejounte Murray from the Atlanta Hawks, sending Larry Nance Jr. the other way. However, the search for a dominant big man is still very much on their radar.
Rumors have linked the Pelicans to several potential targets. They have shown a long-standing interest in Cleveland Cavaliers’ All-Star center Jarrett Allen. Allen’s shot-blocking and rebounding skills make him an ideal fit alongside Zion Williamson, but Cleveland has been reluctant to part with him. Additionally, the Pelicans have also been eyeing Orlando Magic’s Wendell Carter Jr., another promising young center who could fill the void left by Valanciunas.
The Pelicans are not just looking at these options; they have also considered making a move for Utah Jazz’s Walker Kessler. With these options on the table, the Pelicans are positioned to make a significant addition to their frontcourt, bolstering their defense and rebounding capabilities.
Enter Deandre Ayton. The 2024 season saw Ayton average 16.7 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, solidifying his status as one of the league’s top centers. Ayton’s ability to dominate in the paint and protect the rim makes him a perfect fit for the Pelicans. Adding Toumani Camara, a young and versatile forward, further sweetens the deal for New Orleans, providing them with depth and potential.
By securing Ayton, the Pelicans not only address their immediate need for a center but also position themselves as a formidable team in the Western Conference. Ayton’s presence will complement Zion’s game, creating a powerful duo that can compete with the best in the league. This move is a strategic step forward for the Pelicans, aiming to build a balanced and competitive roster capable of making a deep playoff run.
More Assets For The Blazers’ Rebuild
The Portland Trail Blazers have been making strategic moves to bolster their roster for a successful rebuild. Recently, they traded Malcolm Brogdon, the 14th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, a 2029 first-round pick, and two future second-rounders to acquire forward Deni Avdija from the Washington Wizards. Avdija had a breakout season in 2023-24, averaging 14.7 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game, making him a valuable addition to Portland’s young core.
Additionally, the Blazers drafted center Donovan Clingan with the 7th overall pick. To ensure Clingan gets significant playing time, they need to clear the crowded frontcourt by moving either Deandre Ayton or Robert Williams. This trade proposal, which sends Ayton to the Pelicans, aligns perfectly with that goal.
Adding Andrew Wiggins and Gary Payton II to the mix would not only bring veteran leadership to the Blazers but also valuable experience. Wiggins, who averaged 13.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game last season, can be a solid scoring option and a defensive presence on the wing. The 2026 first-round pick from the Warriors further adds to Portland’s asset pool, providing flexibility for future trades or draft opportunities.
Overall, this trade helps the Blazers continue their rebuild with a balanced mix of young talent and experienced veterans, positioning them for a brighter future.
