4 possible trade targets for the New Orleans Pelicans

New Orleans Pelicans: Trades with the Detroit Pistons

The Pistons stink (I should know, I cover them too) and may end up with one of the worst records in the league. If they are still struggling at the deadline, expect them to jettison their veterans for assets and to further their chances of tanking for Wembanyama.

They have two guys who could help the Pelicans, and they might come at a cheaper cost than either of the players from Utah.

Alec Burks

Burks hasn’t played yet, so until he comes back and shows he is healthy, he’s not on anyone’s radar as a trade target. But once he does come back, he’d be a nice fit for the Pelicans’ bench as a guy who shoots over 40 percent from 3-point range and can play and defend a couple of positions.

Burks only has a team option for next season, so he would not be a long-term commitment and the Pelicans could probably get him for one of their young players. Would it be worth giving up on Hayes or Kira Lewis Jr. to add a short-term veteran? I am not so sure.

Burks would be great for bench depth, but it really depends on the cost.

Bojan Bogdanovic

*Since the writing of this, Bogdanovic has signed a 2 year/$39 million extension with Detroit

I actually though Bogdanovic was a guy the Pelicans should have traded for in the offseason, as the Pistons got him for next to nothing. In fact, he was traded for Kelly Olynyk, so that move worked out for both teams.

Bogdanovic has been one of the only bright spots for the Pistons, and they might have some interest in keeping him long term, but the way he is playing, he’s also their best trade asset and will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the year.*

I think he’ll be a hot commodity at the deadline, so he’d cost more than Burks, but the Pels may be able to snag him for Hayes, Graham and that Milwaukee pick. This is one of the best high-volume 3-point shooters in the league, an experienced winner, and another guy who would give the Pelicans both injury depth and a big boost in talent.

It’s too early for the New Orleans Pelicans to go shopping, as we don’t know where these teams will be in a few months, but all four of these players could be on their radar at some point this season as the Pels try to make a push for a deep playoff run.