Pelicans Rumors: 4 trade options for the 4th pick
By Cody Taylor
Bradley Beal, Guard, Washington Wizards
The Wizards’ guard has floated around trade speculations most of the season, mainly with his name being attached to the Los Angeles Lakers trade as a trade destination. Beal has emerged as one of the games brightest young stars. The 2-time All-Star has started all 82 regular season games in DC the last two seasons.
Growth and durability are always a plus. Beal averaged 25/5/5 on 47.5% shooting from the field and 35.1% from beyond the three-point line. In Wall’s absence, Beal elevated his game to new heights even if Washington’s record didn’t reflect his efforts.
The Wizards are in the confines of a salary cap nightmare with John Wall, the rebuild is a little trickier than most. Shedding Beal’s contract could give them more flexibility, but he’s their best player and without him, the situation gets a whole lot bleaker. Would they open to a trade for valued draft assets, like the 4th overall pick, a future first and Lonzo Ball or Brandon Ingram? Maybe, maybe not—that’s the beautiful thing about hypotheticals, they’re just that.
Lauri Markkanen, Power Forward, Chicago Bulls
David Griffin is no rookie when it comes to the negotiation table, but even this would take some convincing on his end. Markkanen averaged 18/9/1 shooting 43% from the field and 36.1% from beyond the three-point line.
Markannen presents a very enticing long term fit within the Pelicans roster. Offensively, he’s the perfect complementary big to Zion Williamson. His ability to stretch the floor, fade off and knock down open looks, and put the ball on the deck when needed would provide the Pelicans with a very appealing frontcourt dynamic.
Markannen is 22-years-old, his production is increasing with every passion season and probably is valued quite high within the Bulls’ organization. However, if anyone can negotiate a trade of this magnitude, it would be Griff. Just don’t get your hopes up.