The New Orleans Pelicans have really started to find their footing since the All-Star break. While it appears to be too little, too late to compete for a play-in spot this season, it’s a bright sign for the future. Prior to Dejounte Murray's return, the Pelicans looked discombobulated at times offensively. They didn't know where the ball should go in the clutch and often had actions that interim head coach James Borrego called falling apart.
Aside from the team's resurgence since Murray's return, the other biggest bright spot has been Zion Williamson. The former No. 1 pick's play this season hasn't just been beneficial for himself but also has really brightened the Pelicans' long-term future.
If Zion can play the team's final 10 games, he will have appeared in 65 games this season, which would be the second most of his career. On top of that, he at one point this season appeared in 35 straight games, which is the most consecutive games played of his career. This consistent health for Zion has been hard to find, and the fact that he is remaining this healthy while still being an unstoppable scoring threat at the basket on the lowest usage of his career is extremely impressive.
This not only benefits the Pelicans long term if they keep Zion but also if they explore trading him.
Zion Williamson future in New Orleans is win-win for the Pelicans
At this point, I don't personally believe Joe Dumars and Troy Weaver are going to be looking to trade Zion this offseason. But that doesn't mean opposing general managers won't be calling.
Zion's raw talent, the reputation he built as one of the league's strongest players, and his highlight-reel ability make him a fun potential trade target for some playoff contenders. His skill set, depending on the team, could translate to a perfect third or even second scoring option, and for that reason, he may be traded this summer. Health was always what reportedly stopped teams from targeting Z, but now, for the first time in his career, it appears he has put injuries behind him.
So whether New Orleans decides to be dedicated to this exact core and thinks Zion, Trey Murphy III, and Dejounte Murray are strong enough to lead a playoff team or not, the Pelicans are in a great spot. Trading Zion could net a return to help really kick start a long-awaited rebuild, but holding onto him could also get the team back to the postseason in 2026-27.
So whatever the front office decides to do this summer, the first major decision will likely center on Zion Williamson and his future in New Orleans.