The Pelicans could make the perfect trades to bolster their roster into contention.

Year after year, the New Orleans Pelicans have been on the verge of serious contention, but the inconsistent health of its foundational pieces has cast a persistent shadow over their aspirations. The explosive duo of Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram has promised much, but injuries have limited their on-court time together, leaving fans wondering what could have been.

In this context, a bold proposal emerges that could alter the franchise’s trajectory. The idea of pairing Zion Williamson with Trae Young, the virtuoso point guard of the Atlanta Hawks, and shoring up the defense with the imposing presence of Myles Turner, the Indiana Pacers’ center, stands out as an ambitious yet plausible plan. This article delves into the intricacies of this hypothetical trade and how it might serve as the catalyst for the New Orleans Pelicans to finally realize their full potential in the NBA.

The Pelicans Go All-In For Trae Young

Credit: Fadeaway World

In the envisioned trade scenario, the New Orleans Pelicans are contemplating a seismic shift by acquiring Trae Young from the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for C.J. McCollum, Herb Jones, a 2024 first-round pick, and a 2026 first-round pick.

New Orleans Pelicans receive: Trae Young

Atlanta Hawks receive: CJ McCollum, Herb Jones, 2024 first-round pick, 2026 first-round pick

Trae Young, the focal point of the acquisition for the New Orleans Pelicans, has showcased his scoring and playmaking prowess in the early games of the season. With an impressive average of 24.4 points and 10.2 assists per game, Young has been a dynamic force on the court. Despite a field goal percentage of 35.7%, his ability to create opportunities for himself and his teammates underscores his value as a premier playmaker in the league.

On the other side of the trade, C.J. McCollum brings a scoring touch that could complement the Pelicans’ offensive scheme. In the six games he has played this season, McCollum has averaged 21.7 points, 5.7 assists, and 4.8 rebounds per game. Notably, his shooting efficiency stands out with a 44.0% field goal percentage and an impressive 38.3% from beyond the arc, adding a reliable perimeter threat to the Pelicans’ arsenal.

Herb Jones, a promising defensive talent, has also made an impact in the early games of the season. Averaging 10.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game with a solid 47.1% field goal percentage, Jones provides a well-rounded contribution. His defensive capabilities, combined with a burgeoning offensive game, make him an intriguing asset in the trade.

The core of this proposed trade revolves around the strategic vision of pairing Trae Young’s dynamic playmaking skills with the explosive athleticism of Zion Williamson. This collaboration could revolutionize the Pelicans’ offensive approach, with Brandon Ingram assuming a more focused scoring role, a dynamic akin to successful partnerships seen across the league.

Defensively, the lineup considerations factor in the limitations of Young and Ingram, proposing a configuration with Trae Young, Trey Murphy (recovering from injury), Brandon Ingram, Zion Williamson, and a defensively stalwart pivot, possibly Myles Turner. This setup seeks to strike a delicate balance between offensive firepower and defensive resilience, addressing potential vulnerabilities on the perimeter.

One of the trade’s key advantages for the Pelicans lies in Young’s ability to dominate in clutch situations. This not only adds a crucial dimension to their game but also alleviates the pressure on the team during high-stakes moments, potentially creating a more resilient and competitive squad.

The versatility introduced by Trae Young’s acquisition extends beyond a formidable Big 3, providing the Pelicans with offensive depth. In the event of injuries, the team would boast multiple scoring options, mitigating the impact of individual absences and fostering a more adaptable offensive strategy.

Conversely, the Atlanta Hawks would receive C.J. McCollum, a seasoned guard with offensive prowess, Herb Jones, a promising defensive talent, and future draft assets. This trade aligns with Atlanta’s roster needs, particularly with Dejounte Murray emerging as the primary ball handler and Jones contributing elite perimeter defense to support McCollum’s offensive capabilities.

In essence, this proposed trade has the potential to redefine the trajectories of both franchises. It offers the Pelicans a dynamic offensive core and a pathway to contention while providing the Hawks with a more balanced roster and valuable draft assets for future maneuvers. The implications of such a move extend far beyond the individual player statistics, promising a reshaping of team dynamics and aspirations in the highly competitive landscape of the NBA.

Myles Turner Gets Moved From Indiana To New Orleans

Credit: Fadeaway World

In this hypothetical trade scenario, the New Orleans Pelicans are poised to acquire Myles Turner from the Indiana Pacers in exchange for Jonas Valanciunas, Trey Murphy III, and a 2025 first-round pick.

New Orleans Pelicans receive: Myles Turner

Indiana Pacers receive: Jonas Valanciunas, Trey Murphy III, 2025 first-round pick

Myles Turner’s current season showcases his two-way impact, averaging an impressive 17.6 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game. Notably, his 40.0% shooting from beyond the arc adds a valuable floor-spacing dimension that could diversify the Pelicans’ offensive arsenal. Turner’s ability to protect the rim and switch defensively aligns with the modern NBA’s emphasis on versatility.

Conversely, Jonas Valanciunas has been a force in the paint, contributing 12.0 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game. His notable 38.9% shooting from three-point range demonstrates an unexpected but valuable outside touch for a center. However, with Valanciunas on an expiring contract, the Pelicans leverage his trade value, necessitating the inclusion of a future first-round pick and Trey Murphy III.

Trey Murphy III, despite recovering from a meniscus injury and expected to return in December, brings a defensive acumen that can significantly benefit the Pacers. His 14.5 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game in the previous season, coupled with a 38.9% three-point shooting accuracy, highlight his potential impact as a versatile wing defender and a reliable offensive threat.

Myles Turner’s defensive acumen brings a significant upgrade to the Pelicans’ ability to switch on defense. Despite statistical measures that may not entirely capture his defensive impact, Turner’s mindset and versatility make him a superior fit for a switch-heavy system. This adjustment aligns with the modern NBA’s emphasis on defensive flexibility, potentially elevating the Pelicans’ overall defensive performance.

His proficiency in pick-and-roll situations presents an exciting prospect for the Pelicans, especially in tandem with Trae Young as the point guard is not known for his defensive presence. Turner’s agility, shot-blocking ability, and timing make him an ideal partner for Young in these defensive scenarios. Turner’s presence in the pick-and-roll game not only enhances offensive options but also adds a layer of defensive anticipation, complementing Young’s playmaking prowess.

Turner’s established reputation as a respected outside shooter over an extended period sets him apart from Valanciunas. This threat forces opposing big men to step out of the paint to contest his shots, opening up driving lanes for Trae Young, Zion Williamson, and Brandon Ingram. With the paint less crowded, the Pelicans’ trio of offensive talents can exploit these openings, either finishing at the rim or kicking out for open perimeter shots.

Indiana, currently holding a commendable 6-3 record and positioned in the top 4 of the Eastern Conference, might find appeal in acquiring a more offensive-minded big man in Valanciunas. This addition could provide another scoring option to complement their strong offensive game. Furthermore, the departure of Turner might create opportunities for promising young talents like Jalen Smith and Isaiah Jackson in the frontcourt if Valanciunas does not resign there.

In conclusion, this proposed trade offers intriguing dynamics for both teams. The Pelicans stand to gain a defensive anchor with shooting prowess, potentially elevating their defensive capabilities and introducing new dimensions to their offensive strategies. On the other hand, the Pacers acquire a mix of veteran presence and promising youth, enhancing their offensive versatility and fostering the development of emerging talents. As the season progresses, the implications of this trade could reverberate through the league, shaping the trajectories of both the New Orleans Pelicans and the Indiana Pacers.

Pelicans Signing Free Agents Is a Must Move In This Scenario

In the dynamic landscape of the NBA, building a championship-caliber roster extends beyond blockbuster trades. In this scenario, supplementing the core with strategic free-agent signings becomes a crucial move for the New Orleans Pelicans. Here’s why adding Terrence Ross, Will Barton, and Wenyen Gabriel on minimum deals is a must.

Terrence Ross, known for his scoring prowess and ability to provide an offensive spark off the bench, stands out as a valuable addition. In the 2022-23 season, Ross averaged 8.3 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game while shooting an impressive 36.7% from beyond the arc. His scoring versatility and perimeter threat make him an ideal sixth man, injecting energy and points when the starters are off the floor.

Will Barton brings a solid all-around game to the table, making him a valuable asset for the Pelicans. In the 2022-23 season, Barton averaged 6.8 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, showcasing his versatility on both ends of the court. With a 37.9% shooting efficiency from three-point range, Barton can contribute as a reliable floor spacer, providing valuable spacing for the Pelicans’ offensive schemes.

Adding depth to the frontcourt is essential, and Wenyen Gabriel emerges as an intriguing option. In the 2022-23 season, Gabriel averaged 5.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 0.5 assists per game. While his offensive numbers may not be eye-popping, Gabriel brings hustle, energy, and defensive tenacity. His ability to play as a power forward adds versatility to the Pelicans’ frontcourt rotation, providing crucial depth behind key players.

Pursuing these players lies in their willingness to sign for minimum deals. This approach not only maximizes cap flexibility but also allows the Pelicans to allocate resources strategically. Signing these experienced role players at a minimum cost ensures that the team maintains financial flexibility for potential future moves while bolstering the bench with proven contributors.

The Pelicans Super Young Team In The West

Starters: Trae Young, Will Barton, Brandon Ingram, Zion Williamson, Myles Turner

Bench: José Alvarado, Dyson Daniels, Terrence Ross, Wenyen Gabriel, Larry Nance Jr., Kira Lewis, Jordan Hawkins, Cody Zeller, Naji Marshall 

The envisioned Big 3 comprising Trae Young, Zion Williamson, and Brandon Ingram for the New Orleans Pelicans holds immense promise, especially within the context of the highly competitive Western Conference. Assessing their collective skill set and potential impact, there are several factors that make this trio formidable and capable of making a significant impact.

The offensive capabilities of Young, Williamson, and Ingram create a dynamic and versatile scoring threat. Young’s elite playmaking, paired with Williamson’s unmatched athleticism and Ingram’s scoring finesse, form a trio that can break down defenses in various ways. The potential synergy between these three talents has the potency to challenge even the most robust defensive schemes in the Western Conference.

While the defensive aspects of this trio may warrant attention, Myles Turner’s potential acquisition and the strategic free-agent signings can add a defensive edge. If utilized effectively, Turner’s shot-blocking ability and the additional defensive contributions from role players can shore up the team’s overall defensive presence.

The success of a young team hinges not only on star power but also on the development and contributions of emerging talents. Jordan Hawkins, Dyson Daniels, Naji Marshall, Jose Alvarado, and Kira Lewis inject youth, energy, and potential into the roster. These players can provide essential depth, defensive tenacity, and additional scoring options, especially considering the grueling nature of the Western Conference.

The Pelicans’ Super Young Team, anchored by the formidable Big 3, possesses the ingredients to compete at the highest level. The offensive firepower, defensive adjustments, and the infusion of young talents provide a well-rounded foundation for success.

This team, under the right strategic leadership, has the potential not only to contend but to secure an NBA Championship. The collective growth of the young players, coupled with the established star power, creates a narrative of a team on the rise—a team capable of hoisting the championship trophy amidst the elite competition in the Western Conference.