Ranking the New Orleans Pelicans top 6 trade assets

#1: Zion Williamson

While most may not be ready to discuss the idea of trading away a player who was proclaimed to be the most hyped prospect since LeBron James, the Pelicans are at the stage where they must at least consider it. Williamson has only played in 114 games over the past four seasons, and while he’s been transcendent when healthy – 25.8 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.6 assists – those moments just aren’t frequent enough for the Pelicans to be a legitimate contender.

Williamson missed all of last season with an injury to his right foot. Though he came back to the court fully healthy to start the season, men of his size and foot injuries have a notorious history together. No matter how well he plays, there will be a conversation about injuries that will surround Zion for the rest of his career.

The superstar talent is obviously there. Williamson is coming off of a season that saw his second All-Star selection (in just three seasons played) despite playing just 29 games. Even if he doesn’t ever play a fully healthy season, the value of Williamson is immense, whether on the court for New Orleans or in a potential trade.

It’s rare to get such a generational talent, and at some point, he may very well have a run of healthy years, but as he’s only played in 37% of his potential games, perhaps it’s wise to cut ties.