New Orleans Pelicans rumors: Trading Jrue Holiday to Celtics for Hayward

New Orleans Pelicans trade rumors: Moving Jrue Holiday for Gordon Hayward makes sense

Why the Pelicans would do it

The Pels would almost certainly try to pry Marcus Smart and possibly Daniel Theis away from the Celtics, which would be a better haul if it still included the pick, but adding Hayward and #7 does have some appeal.

First off, Hayward has one less year on his contract than Holiday, so it would allow the Pels to clear some future cap space.

He also plays a position of need, as the Pelicans are light at both forward spots and could use another wing to pair with Brandon Ingram.

Hayward and Ingram could potentially share the floor at times and the Pelicans would need Hayward to become more of a playmaker in their offense.

Stan Van Gundy loves wings who can shoot, so Hayward would fit right in as a 3-point shooter who hits 38.3 percent of his long-range shots.

With the 7th pick, the Pels could take the best big man available, someone like Onyeka Okongwu, who would give them a very deep and talented roster. They could take another high-ceiling guard like Killian Hayes or just take the player they feel is best.

PG: Lonzo Ball

SG: Brandon Ingram/ J.J. Redick

SF: Gordon Hayward/ Josh Hart

PF: Zion Williamson/ Nicolo Melli

C: Onyeka Okongwu/ Jaxson Hayes

This team is not only young but very versatile and would be better defensively around the rim, where they really struggled last year.

It’s not a no-brainer for the Pelicans, as Hayward is still recovering from his horrific injury. But they’d be buying low on a guy who averaged 17.5 points, 6.7 rebounds and 4.1 assists, who should be better next season after he’s had more time to fully heal.

That’s not a bad pick up for the Pelicans, who would potentially be better now and in the future.