Bill Simmons offers Hail Mary trade idea for Zion Williamson

The Los Angeles Clippers time is running out. Bill Simmons believes they may have reached a moment for franchise-changing momentum. He The Bill Simmons Podcastlongtime NBA commentator pitched what he called the “Hail Mary” trade idea. The Clippers roll the dice at the former #1 pick Zion Williamson.

Simmons claimed that the Clippers, despite a miserable 6-18 startjust a couple of losses away from the last playoff spot in the Western Conference. That, coupled with the franchise’s limited future flexibility, makes them candidates to chase high-risk, high-reward talent. Williamson, Simmons said, fits that profile better than anyone.

With the New Orleans Pelicans sunk to a league-worst 3-22 record and missing their own 2026 first-round pick, Simmons believes the franchise is ready for a reset. Williamson has played in just 10 of New Orleans’ 25 games and is expected to miss more time, adding to long-standing concerns about his availability. Simmons bluntly asked if the Pelicans “wanted to do the Zion business anymore.”

Would Zion Williamson thrive with the Clippers?

The Clippers, he said, have the stuff to make the math work: the expiring contracts of John Collins and Bogdan Bogdanovic, plus the most desirable item in any rebuild. Unprotected future first round pick. Simmons suggested going first with the Clippers in 2030. It’s a move that could tempt a New Orleans front office starting anew under Joe Dumars. If the Clippers’ aging core falters, that pick could become an asset to the franchise-changing Pelicans.

For Los Angeles, the gamble is obvious. They are not in control of their short-term future. That means a loss this season only benefits Oklahoma City. With Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, Bradley Beal and Ivica Zubac already in place, Simmons argued that the addition of Williamson could raise the Clippers’ ceiling enough to salvage their postseason hopes and extend their competitive frame.

The logic is blunt. If the Clippers are already committed, they could be chasing the momentum that could reshape everything. Simmons believes Zion is that momentum. With the organization facing scrutiny and uncertain long-term stability, boldness may be their only way forward.