Ranking the New Orleans Pelicans top 6 trade assets

#4: CJ McCollum

When the Pelicans acquired CJ McCollum from the Portland Trail Blazers, they did so with the belief that the team was one talented veteran away from becoming a perennial playoff contender. In fairness to the team, they likely would have been correct if not for a series of injuries to multiple players.

Since coming to New Orleans, McCollum has proven himself both on and off the court. The 10-year vet averaged 21.8 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game for the Pelicans this season in 75 games, leading the team to their first winning record since 2017-18.

Trading away McCollum does not match David Griffin’s plans for an offseason of tweaks, but with two stars under the age of 25, it’s admittedly tough to see a guard on the wrong side of 30 as a perfect fit. If a team is looking to move off of a high-quality player but is hoping to remain competitive in the process, the Pelicans could receive calls about McCollum. Teams like the Hawks and the Boston Celtics come to mind.

More than likely, CJ McCollum will remain with the Pelicans through the offseason. However, if the opportunity arises to either upgrade or receive a similar level player who more closely aligns with the team’s timeframe, David Griffin and the rest of New Orlean’s front office would be wise to consider at least the possibility of a trade.