New Orleans Pelicans Emerge As Trade Suitor For All-Star Forward

With the NBA regular season fast approaching, the New Orleans Pelicans still have some important decisions to make regarding their roster. The primary focus is on the situation surrounding Brandon Ingram.

All summer long, Ingram has been the subject of trade speculation, and those rumors only intensified when he didn’t attend a voluntary team minicamp. His absence, especially after having participated in similar events he’s organized in the past, sends a strong message about the current state of his relationship with the organization.

A key factor in Ingram’s future with the Pelicans revolves around Trey Murphy. It’s unlikely that New Orleans will commit to long-term deals for both players, especially with hefty contracts already tied up in Zion Williamson, CJ McCollum, and Dejounte Murray.

One of these players will likely be moved, with Ingram being the more probable candidate for a trade.

However, the Pelicans’ plans also depend on finalizing an extension for Murphy, leaving his future somewhat uncertain as well.

If a trade involving Ingram does materialize, New Orleans will likely prioritize acquiring a starting-caliber center in return. Their center position was significantly impacted during the offseason after Jonas Valanciunas signed with the Washington Wizards in free agency and Larry Nance Jr. was traded to the Atlanta Hawks in the deal for Murray.

At present, the Pelicans’ depth at center includes Daniel Theis, 2024 first-round pick Yves Missi, Karlo Matković, and Trey Jemison, who is on a two-way contract. While this rotation may suffice for now, it’s clear that the team would prefer to improve this area via a trade.

Unfortunately, the market for centers who fit the Pelicans’ needs is quite limited.

New Orleans Pelicans Could Look To Trade For All-Star Forward

One potential target, as suggested by Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report, is Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler.

“Meanwhile, New Orleans could use a center to replace Jonas Valančiūnas, sent via sign-and-trade to the Washington Wizards. Walker Kessler’s size (7’0″) and contract appeal to many teams on this list.”

The 2022 first-round pick out of Auburn has the attributes New Orleans head coach Willie Green seeks in a center. Kessler provides strong rim protection and control in the paint, both critical components for a successful defensive system.

Equally important for the Pelicans is that Kessler’s contract is highly affordable.

With New Orleans’ ownership traditionally avoiding the luxury tax, Kessler’s sub-$3 million salary for the upcoming season makes him an appealing option, especially for a franchise that remains mindful of its financial commitments.

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