Best landing spots for New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson are being discussed as his NBA journey takes unexpected turns.
Injuries continue to plague Williamson’s career, limiting him to just 191 out of 482 regular-season games. Despite these setbacks, Williamson, a two-time All-Star averaging 24.6 points per game, remains a formidable player. His ability to drive past defenders, dominate in isolation, and soar above the rim makes him one of the most aggressive competitors in the league. Meanwhile, the Pelicans are struggling, holding a dismal 7-31 record, the worst in the Western Conference.
With Williamson recently returning from a hamstring injury and still just 24 years old, the Pelicans may consider trading him. He is currently in the second season of a five-year, $197 million contract.
Here are the three best potential trade destinations for Williamson.
3. Portland Trail Blazers
The Trail Blazers have faced challenges, with a record of 94-188 over the past four seasons. Although they have some promising young talent, a trade for Williamson could provide the spark they need to revitalize their rebuild.
Williamson would be a game-changer for Portland, forcing opposing teams to adjust their defensive strategies. As the former No. 1 overall pick, he could help the team find its identity, especially since they are still searching for a franchise player. His presence would alleviate some pressure on emerging stars like Shaedon Sharpe and Scoot Henderson.
In a potential trade, the Trail Blazers could offer Deandre Ayton, Kris Murray, and a future first-round pick to New Orleans. This would give the Pelicans a new starting center in Ayton and a versatile player in Murray, while Portland strengthens its lineup.
That said, Portland might choose to evaluate Ayton and Clingan for the remainder of the season before making a significant frontcourt decision.
2. Detroit Pistons
Under J.B. Bickerstaff, the Pistons have transformed from the NBA’s worst team to a legitimate playoff contender in a single season. While they are on the right track, acquiring Williamson could accelerate their progress.
Cade Cunningham is likely to remain the centerpiece of Detroit’s offense, but Williamson would complement him well, forming a dynamic scoring duo. Both players excel at driving to the basket, creating isolation opportunities, and occasionally hitting shots from long range.
With a promising young core, Williamson could elevate Detroit into a serious contender within two years. Adding players like Jaden Ivey and Ausar Thompson, along with veterans like Malik Beasley and Tim Hardaway Jr., could create a potent mix.
In a trade scenario, Detroit could send Isaiah Stewart, Tobias Harris, its 2027 and 2029 first-round picks, and two second-round picks to New Orleans. This would provide the Pelicans with a new starting center and valuable draft assets, while the Pistons enhance their frontcourt.
However, Detroit might prefer to stick with its current roster, enjoying their recent success and possibly considering a blockbuster trade in the offseason.
1. Charlotte Hornets
The Hornets, currently at 8-27, are projected to finish with fewer than 30 wins for the third consecutive season. They have only one winning season in the last nine years. It’s time for Charlotte to take action and pursue Williamson.
A potential trade could involve sending Grant Williams, Nick Richards, Josh Green, and a 2027 first-round pick to New Orleans for Williamson. The Pelicans would receive two starting-caliber players in Williams and Richards, along with a quality shooter in Green and a valuable draft pick.
Any team trading for Williamson faces a significant risk, but the Hornets must seize the moment. With numerous young players and a solid draft pick collection, it’s time to make a bold move rather than remain stagnant.
In a worst-case scenario, if the Hornets fail to rise in the Eastern Conference, they could attempt to trade LaMelo Ball and Williamson for a haul of picks in two years. Alternatively, they could continue languishing at the bottom of the standings without making any significant changes.
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