This offseason has been much more hectic for the New Orleans Pelicans than many originally predicted. Whether it be Zion Williamson’s off-the-court drama or the newfound trade rumors surrounding the Pelicans trading up to the second pick in this year’s draft, not many expected this summer to be so crazy in New Orleans.
With the rumor surrounding the Pelicans trading up to the second pick, many have pondered on if the Pelicans should move Brandon Ingram or Williamson in a trade with the Hornets. While reports have come out saying that Charlotte is more interested in Ingram. It’s unknown as to who the Pelicans are prioritizing this offseason.
It may make more sense for the Pelicans to be patient, as they really have no reason to rush into trading one of their stars away. But we wouldn’t be surprised to see one of them go. However, it doesn’t take much thinking to conclude that if one has to be traded, it should be Ingram to go, not Williamson.
The Pelicans would be making a huge mistake if they trade Zion Williamson:
Both Ingram and Williamson are great players. Honestly, the fact that these conversations are even being had is aggravating, considering the limited time these two have had together due to injuries. Despite this, if it comes down to keeping one, New Orleans can’t make the mistake of trading Williamson.
Zion and Ingram games played together:
— Christian Clark (@cclark_13) June 19, 2023
2019-20: 22 games
2020-21: 59 games
2021-22: 0 games
2022-23: 12 games
They have played 93 games together in 4 seasons. 12 since Willie Green became HC.
If the duo gets broken up, feels like Pels fans are always gonna think what if?
Not only is Williamson by far and away the better player, but he’s also younger and on a longer-term contract. On top of this, if the Pelicans trade one of these two for the second pick, Scoot Henderson would fit much better alongside Williamson. Both Ingram and Williamson would fit well, but Henderson and Williamson would play alongside one another much more smoothly.
Obviously, injuries are a concern with Williamson. However, if that’s the team’s reasoning for trading him, then they’re just hypocrites. Through seven seasons, Ingram has played 60+ games just three times and hasn’t hit that mark in three years now. Both of these players have clear injury concerns, so why keep the worse player?
Whether you look at their stats or watch them play, it doesn’t matter. It’s always been clear that Williamson is the better player, and if not for injuries, this wouldn’t even be a conversation. The fact that these two are even being pitted against one another is more of an indictment on the Pelicans organization than the two players themselves.
With all due respect, why would New Orleans even consider trading for the second pick? The Pelicans were the first seed out West at one point this season when these two were healthy. Why throw that away just to start over again? Henderson is going to be an absolutely incredible player, but if by slim chance he doesn’t pan out, the Pelicans would be in a massive hole.
The Pelicans shouldn’t be in this situation to begin with. There’s no reason to rush their timeline currently. However, if Trajan Langdon deems a trade-up in the draft to be the right decision, he can’t make the mistake of shipping Williamson off.