The New Orleans Pelicans slipped from fourth to seventh in the draft lottery, and it would likely cost them Herb Jones to get into the top three. The 76ers may be willing to trade the third pick after leaping two spots. They have Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey, so getting some win-now help to move back in the draft is on the table. New Orleans cannot give up one of the league’s best defenders to make this happen.
With Zion Williamson trade talks on the backburner, the Pels want to compete now but need more talent. Injuries played a key role in their 21-win season, but New Orleans was bounced in the first round of the playoffs in 2024. They’ve won just one playoff series since 2008. Getting a star in the draft would be massive, but that means paying a significant price.
Jones is coming off a disappointing season where he played just 20 games, but don’t forget he was first-team All-Defense in 2024. The 6’8 forward is in his prime and can guard multiple positions. He is just what New Orleans needs around Zion. That alone should make him off-limits in these talks.
Pelicans are not giving up Herb Jones to move into the top 3
Ace Bailey is projected to go third and has superstar potential. He is a tough shot-maker with some serious questions about his ball-handling and ability to get into the paint in the NBA. The 6’8 wing is a project, but the Pels have had success developing talent.
Bailey could be the Brandon Ingram replacement, but should not be in the scenario The Athletic’s Vecenie described. Giving up Herb Jones and the seventh pick to get Bailey and another player makes little sense for New Orleans. They need a perimeter stopper and have one of the best on a bargain contract. There is no need to give up Jones to take a swing on a potential star with a chance he busts.
The Pelicans have a strong young core in Zion, Trey Murphy, and Herb Jones. They need to build around those pieces. A top-three pick would have helped, but it did not happen. New Orleans should add a young talent at seven and explore the market for upgrades. There will be plenty of movement this summer, and the Pels must capitalize to climb the standings.
There is plenty of uncertainty for the New Orleans Pelicans. Joe Dumars is leading a revamped front office and could make significant moves like trading up for the third overall pick. Nobody knows what will happen, but Dumars shouldn’t. Giving up Herb Jones is too much for the tantalizing upside of Ace Bailey.