Pelicans Trade Targets: Who Could NOLA Acquire?

Let's dive into potential trade candidates for the New Orleans Pelicans! The Pelicans, with their exciting young core and aspirations for a deep playoff run, might be looking to bolster their roster through strategic trades. So, who could be on their radar? We'll break down some players who could realistically become Pelicans, analyzing their fit, potential cost, and how they could elevate the team's performance.

Addressing the Pelicans' Needs

Before we jump into specific names, it's crucial to understand the Pelicans' needs. While they boast a talented roster, some areas could use improvement.

• Shooting: Consistent three-point shooting remains a valuable asset in today's NBA. Adding a reliable sharpshooter would open up the floor for Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, making the offense even more dynamic.
• Defensive Versatility: A wing player who can guard multiple positions would be a major plus. This would provide Coach Green with more flexibility in defensive matchups and lineups.
• Playmaking: While CJ McCollum is a capable playmaker, adding another ball-handler and facilitator would ease the burden on him and create more opportunities for others.

With these needs in mind, let's explore some potential trade targets.

Potential Trade Candidates

Alright, guys, let's get into the juicy stuff! Here are a few players who could be wearing a Pelicans jersey in the near future. Remember, this is all speculation, but these names make sense based on the Pelicans' needs and the current NBA landscape.

1. OG Anunoby (Toronto Raptors)

OG Anunoby is the perfect 3-and-D player, filling a massive need for nearly every team in the NBA. This makes him an extremely sought-after player. The Pelicans would love to add a player of Anunoby's caliber, but acquiring him won't be easy or cheap. The Toronto Raptors are known for their shrewd negotiating skills and won't let go of Anunoby without a significant return.

Why he fits: Anunoby is an elite defender who can guard multiple positions, and he's also a reliable three-point shooter, averaging around 37% from beyond the arc. His presence would instantly elevate the Pelicans' defense and provide much-needed floor spacing on offense.

Potential Cost: A package including multiple first-round picks and a promising young player like Dyson Daniels or Trey Murphy III might be necessary to pry Anunoby away from Toronto. This is a steep price, but the Pelicans might be willing to pay it for a player of Anunoby's caliber.

The challenge: The Raptors value Anunoby highly, and several other teams will likely be vying for his services. The Pelicans would need to put together a compelling package to stand out from the crowd.

2. Buddy Hield (Indiana Pacers)

Buddy Hield is known throughout the league as one of the best shooters. His ability to get hot from downtown would instantly make the Pelicans' offense more dangerous. He is a career 40% three-point shooter on high volume. Even though he's primarily known for his shooting, Hield has also improved his all-around game in recent years, becoming a more willing passer and a more engaged defender. Although he will never be confused with an elite defender, he is no longer a liability on that end of the floor.

Why he fits: As mentioned earlier, the Pelicans could use more consistent three-point shooting. Hield would provide that in spades. His ability to space the floor would create more driving lanes for Zion and BI, making the offense more efficient.

Potential Cost: The Pacers are likely looking for a first-round pick and a young player with upside in exchange for Hield. The Pelicans could offer a package centered around a future first-round pick and a player like Kira Lewis Jr. or Naji Marshall.

The challenge: Hield's defensive limitations could be a concern for some. However, his offensive firepower might be enough to outweigh those concerns, especially if he's surrounded by solid defenders.

3. Bojan Bogdanovic (Detroit Pistons)

Bojan Bogdanovic is a proven scorer with a sweet shooting touch. He is a reliable offensive weapon who can create his own shot and knock down shots from beyond the arc. Bogdanovic is on an expiring contract, which makes him an attractive trade target for teams looking for a short-term boost. The Detroit Pistons are in rebuild mode and may be willing to part ways with Bogdanovic for the right price.

Why he fits: Bogdanovic would provide the Pelicans with another scoring threat off the bench. He's a crafty player who can get buckets in a variety of ways. His ability to shoot the ball would also open up the floor for Zion and BI.

Potential Cost: Given his age and contract situation, the Pelicans might be able to acquire Bogdanovic for a relatively modest price. A second-round pick and a role player like Garrett Temple could be enough to get the deal done.

The challenge: Bogdanovic is not the best defender, and he's not getting any younger. However, his offensive skills and experience could be valuable assets for the Pelicans.

4. Gary Trent Jr. (Toronto Raptors)

Another Raptor makes the list! Gary Trent Jr. is a dynamic shooting guard that has the ability to create on the offensive end. He's shown flashes of being a high-level scorer and would fit seamlessly into the Pelicans' system. While he can be streaky, when he's hot, he's HOT. Defensively, he is an above-average defender, making him a solid two-way player.

Why he fits: Trent Jr. would provide the Pelicans with another ball-handler and playmaker who can create opportunities for others. His defensive versatility would also be a plus, as he can guard multiple positions.

Potential Cost: The Raptors are likely looking for a first-round pick and a young player with upside in exchange for Trent Jr. The Pelicans could offer a package centered around a future first-round pick and a player like Kira Lewis Jr. or Naji Marshall.

The challenge: Finding the right trade package that works for both teams can always be a challenge. Trent Jr. is a valuable asset, and the Raptors won't let him go easily.

Other Potential Targets

• Malik Beasley (Los Angeles Lakers): A microwave scorer who can get hot in a hurry.
• Kelly Olynyk (Utah Jazz): A versatile big man who can shoot, pass, and rebound.
• Derrick Rose (New York Knicks): A veteran point guard who can provide leadership and playmaking.

Final Thoughts

The New Orleans Pelicans are in a great position to compete for a championship in the coming years. With a few strategic additions, they could become even more dangerous. Whether they choose to pursue a big-name player like OG Anunoby or a more under-the-radar target like Bojan Bogdanovic, the Pelicans have several options to improve their roster.

It will be interesting to see what moves they make in the coming weeks and months. Keep an eye on the Pelicans – they're a team to watch!