The New Orleans Pelicans have been searching for a way to elevate their roster from intriguing to legitimate contender, and one bold trade idea may hold the key. In this trade proposal, the Pelicans would acquire Cleveland Cavaliers All-Star point guard Darius Garland in exchange for a package centered around Trey Murphy III, Jordan Hawkins, Jose Alvarado, and multiple draft picks.
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: Darius Garland
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: Trey Murphy III, Jordan Hawkins, Jose Alvardo, 2028 New Orleans Pelicans first-round pick, 2030 New Orleans Pelicans first-round pick, 2030 New Orleans Pelicans second-round pick
The Cavaliers Lose An All-Star But Gain Valuable Depth
Trading away Darius Garland would be a tough pill for Cleveland, but there’s logic in considering it. The Cavs are built around Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, and Garland’s role has sometimes overlapped uncomfortably with Mitchell’s since the star guard arrived in 2022.
By dealing Garland, the Cavaliers would secure Trey Murphy III, a 6-foot-9 wing who just had a breakout campaign. Murphy averaged 21.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists, shooting 45.4% from the field and 36.1% from three.
With his length, versatility, and ability to defend multiple positions, Murphy fills a critical hole on the wing for Cleveland. He has All-Star potential in a system that needs more size and spacing around Mitchell and Mobley.
Cleveland would also receive Jordan Hawkins and Jose Alvarado, two useful backcourt pieces. Hawkins, entering Year 3 of his rookie deal, has shown flashes as a long-range shooter and could blossom into a reliable scorer off the bench.
Alvarado, meanwhile, is a fan favorite known for his relentless defensive pressure and disruptive energy. His averages of 10.3 points, 4.6 assists, and 1.3 steals last season highlight how he could stabilize Cleveland’s second unit.
With the addition of two future first-round picks (2028 and 2030) plus a 2030 second-rounder, the Cavaliers would restock their assets while still remaining competitive.
The Pelicans Get A Star Point Guard Next To Dejounte Murray
For New Orleans, this move is about chasing star power in the backcourt. Pairing Darius Garland with Dejounte Murray would create one of the most balanced and dynamic guard tandems in the league.
Garland is coming off a season where he averaged 20.6 points, 6.7 assists, and 40.1% shooting from three. Entering Year 3 of his 5-year, $197 million extension, Garland is locked in long term, giving the Pelicans stability at the most important position.
His ability to space the floor and orchestrate the offense would pair perfectly with Murray’s defense, slashing ability, and playmaking.
Add in Zion Williamson, and suddenly the Pelicans have the kind of star-studded lineup that can make noise in the West. Garland’s shooting opens up the floor for Zion’s rim attacks, while Murray can guard the opponent’s best perimeter player, allowing Garland to conserve energy for offense.
The Bigger Picture
The Pelicans are clearly trying to position themselves as a sleeper contender. Last season, they lacked consistency at the point guard spot. With Garland, they gain a proven All-Star who can carry offensive responsibilities while still fitting alongside their existing core.
The Cavaliers, meanwhile, may not want to part with Garland, but the trade returns depth, a young potential star in Murphy, and valuable draft capital. It allows Cleveland to balance their roster around Mitchell and Mobley while getting key depth.
In the end, this deal represents the classic NBA tradeoff: one team consolidates talent to chase contention, while the other adds depth and future assets to sustain flexibility. Whether either side would actually pull the trigger remains to be seen, but it’s bold enough to make both front offices think.
