Pelica Debrief
Fansided

4 New Orleans Pelicans who tanked their trade value in 2023

By Michael Saenz

Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /
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Jaxson Hayes Play-In
Jaxson Hayes, New Orleans Pelicans. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /

Jaxson Hayes

As a restricted free agent heading into the offseason, it would be extremely surprising if the New Orleans Pelicans didn’t re-sign Jaxson Hayes one way or another. I don’t think it would be smart for the Pelicans to simply give up on a 7-foot athletic 23-year-old. Just because the Pelicans will likely elect to re-sign Hayes this offseason, that also doesn’t mean that his trade value hasn’t taken a hit after this past season.

In his fourth season in the NBA, Hayes only appeared in 47 games and averaged a career-low five points and three rebounds per game on 55 percent shooting from the field. Nevertheless, as has been the case throughout his career, Hayes did have enough flashes where the Pelicans still hold on hope to his potential. Right now, his trade value can’t be high. And I believe that will be reflected if he is allowed to go seek an offer sheet elsewhere in restricted free agency.

Considering that Hayes averaged nine points and five rebounds per game on 62 percent shooting from the field just last season, it’s hard not to view this past year as a step back in Hayes’ development.