We're fast approaching the 2024-25 NBA season trade deadline. With barely two weeks left, the entire league might just be waiting for the first domino to fall now. The New Orleans Pelicans are expected to be heavily involved on the market this year, and they absolutely need to be to spin a silver lining out of this disastrous season.
There's no reason they shouldn't be either. The NBA has more parity this year than initially expected, leaving the door open for dark-horse contenders to assert themselves as real title threats this postseason. The Pelicans have some of the top openly available talents on the block, so they should receive plenty of interest before the deadline.
Between CJ McCollum and Brandon Ingram, New Orleans could drastically change the NBA landscape this season, with the ability to potentially form two title teams out of thin air. Despite their abilities and the wide-open nature of the league, neither CJ nor BI has been getting a lot of traction on the rumor mill. One Pelicans player has been generating a lot of interest, but, unfortunately, he's not available for trade.
Herb Jones may be untouchable but that hasn't stopped teams from trying
According to Marc Stein of The Stein Line, the Dallas Mavericks have called the New Orleans Pelicans regarding Herb Jones's availability. He also reported that the Pelicans' brass quickly shot the Mavs down and have discouraged other potential suitors as well.
Earlier this season, the Pelicans effectively listed most of their roster for sale, including their top stars like CJ, Ingram, and even Zion Williamson. One source even said that the team was actively shopping those three names to other teams. While the bulk of the Pelicans are available for trade, the franchise also in turn named their untouchables at the same time: a shortlist comprised of Trey Murphy III, Yves Missi, Jordan Hawkins, and, of course, Herb Jones.
Herb's ability to singlehandedly transform a team's defense through his activity, length, versatility, and instinct make him a valuable piece for any team looking to compete for the Larry O'Brien. It makes perfect sense why a squad within arm's reach of the title like the Mavericks would want Herb on their roster.
Jones has apparently been generating interest even after his shoulder tear that could potentially hold him out for the rest of the season. The Mavericks are unlikely to still chase after his services now that Dereck Lively II might miss the remainder of the year with a foot fracture. That doesn't mean that the Pelicans won't get anymore calls regarding Herb's availability, though. The franchise might have dubbed him an untouchable asset, but some team might seriously test the limits of that nomination this year. Maybe New Orleans will receive an offer they can't refuse this trade deadline.