The Pelicans’ NBA trade deadline scenario amid the Zion Williamson situation

The clock is ticking for New Orleans Pelicans to make a move, as the trade deadline is fast approaching. The Pelicans are already rumored to be shopping around Zion WilliamsonTrey Murphy III and Herb Jones.

But as of this writing, the Pelicans are stuck with the tap, perhaps waiting to see what other teams do, especially with the latest development for Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks.

Acquiring Antetokounmpo will always be every team’s dream trade scenario. So, due to novelty, dual MVP was not considered for this feature.

After all, the Pelicans have plenty of other targets who could fit perfectly on their intriguing roster.

The perfect New Orleans Pelicans trade deadline scenario

First of all, let’s get the rudeness out of the way: Williamson was a failure for the Pelicans. He was considered by many to be the team’s savior after being drafted with the top overall pick in 2019. However, he spent more time in the hospital than on the field.

Although it is always sad to see a player keep getting injured, ROI with Williamson he was stressful for the Pelicans. Simply put, he has to go.

The Pelicans could offer Williamson and Dejounte Murray that the Memphis Grizzlies for I Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. It’s a deal centered around replacing franchise players — Williamson and Morant — who both seemingly overstayed their welcome in their respective cities.

The trade will also further prove that Williamson and Morant, who entered the NBA together, will always be linked.

The Pelicans spent years orbiting around Williamson’s potential, often without clarity. However, this trade offers security Morant has struggled in recent years. He is also currently sidelined with an elbow injury. Still, a change of scenery will reinvigorate the 26-year-old Morant. Staying on a small market team will also give him exposure.

He’s a culture-changing mover, a nightly floor lifter who can elevate the Pelicans and electrify fans. He can unlock a pace and space offense better suited to the Pelicans’ supporting cast.

Jackson, meanwhile, will immediately upgrade the Pelicans’ frontcourt. His defensive ability will pair well with the offensive acumen of Derrick Queen. Jackson also provides another two-way threat for New Orleans besides Murphy. He can stretch the floor, protect the rim and switch between lineups.

The Pelicans may not want a deal that only gets them Morant, given his issues. The 26-year-old Jackson, a steady contributor, is the insurance.

The starting five of Quinn, Jackson, Murphy, Jones and Morant, with Jordan Poole and Sadiq Bey coming off the bench, looks intimidating.

Meanwhile, firing Murray will give more opportunities to Jeremy Fears, Bryce McGowens and Jordan Hawkins. Murray only played 31 games for the Pelicans due to an Achilles injury.

Zion Williamson joined the Memphis Grizzlies

Like Morant, the change of scenery will be good for the 25-year-old Williamson. A completely different medical staff might also make him more durable.

He will give the Grizzlies something they haven’t had since the Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol eras: a unique interior force. While Jackson was a solid anchor, he doesn’t really draw attention.

When healthy, Williamson is one of the NBA’s most efficient shooters, using his power and strength to dominate inside despite his small size. He could be the offensive center while the Grizzlies keep their defensive identity intact.

The 29-year-old Murray may seem like a throw-in in the deal, but he’s a versatile guard with the ability to make an impact on both ends. Don’t forget he’s a one-time All-Star.