This off-season for the Pelicans is one filled with question marks. A few of which have been answered. We know Joe Dumars is the new shot caller, and that Zion Williamson will be back next season. But we still don't know who the Pels plan on drafting 7th overall, or what reports of no one being untouchable mean for Herb Jones and CJ McCollum. But one of the most interesting questions is, what will the Pels do about pending free agent Bruce Brown?
Brown was part of the trade that sent Brandon Ingram to Toronto at the 2025 trade deadline. Brown's future in New Orleans is questionable, with him playing the same position as young guys like Jordan Hawkins and Antonio Reeves, the chances of him returning are unlikely. Even though Brown will be an unrestricted free agent, meaning he can sign anywhere, the Pels could still get a return for him.
Sign-and-trade!
The Pelicans will have Brown's bird right upon him entering free agency. This means New Orleans can offer Brown more money than any other team outside the Brooklyn Nets and Detroit Pistons. Putting the Pels in a great spot to present sign-and-trade options to Bruce.
A sign-and-trade would be a win-win for both Brown and the Pelicans. Brown could get more money than contending teams can afford to offer him while still getting to go to a contender. The Pelicans would be able to recoup assets for Brown and make it feel less like they gave away Brandon Ingram for nothing.
Teams would definitely be willing to give up some good assets to acquire Bruce via sign-and-trade. The now 28-year-old is a six-year pro and was vital in the Denver Nuggets' 2022-2023 NBA title run. His grit and heart are something every team with championship aspirations needs, from a starter or someone coming off the bench.
A return for Brown would look one of two ways. Either it'll be a young player who has shown potential, but hasn't put it all together yet. This would be a great option as the Pelicans have a relatively young core of guys, and finding someone on their same timeline would be great. The other option would be a win-now player and a second-round pick. This option would be the better path if New Orleans's goal next season is to be a top-six seed.
The Pelicans are only expected to have $5.7 million in available money from the Taxpayer Midlevel Exception, leaving their free agent option somewhat limited. Therefore, they must work out a sign-and-trade with Brown to help them maximize their potential in free agency.