New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) looks on against the Indiana Pacers during the first half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Imagesimage captionNew Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) looks on against the Indiana Pacers during the first half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) looks on against the Indiana Pacers during the first half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
Zion’s trade value is at an all-time low, so let’s break down every package the Pelicans could get for him.
Fran Leiva
46 minutes ago
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Zion Williamson’s NBA story feels like a rollercoaster stuck in the downside. He’s been sidelined since November 6 with a left hamstring strain, adding yet another chapter to his long injury history. The guy has only played in 190 games since his rookie year, and his inability to stay on the court is a huge reason the Pelicans are sitting at a miserable 5-19 record, dead last in the West.
On top of all that, trade rumors are swirling. Some suggest Zion could be on the move this summer, with teams like the Knicks or Thunder named as possible suitors. But let’s be real—his value isn’t what it used to be. With the Pelicans sinking fast, it’s time to wonder: what could they actually get for Zion now?
Atlanta Hawks
Potential Trade Offer: De'Andre Hunter, Onyeka Okongwu, 2025 First-Round Pick (via SAC), 2025 First-Round Pick (via LAL)
The Hawks are 13-11 right now, sitting 5th in the East, but let’s be real—they’ve got defensive issues, ranking 18th in the league. Trae Young’s doing his usual magic with 21.2 points and 12.3 dimes, and Jalen Johnson is balling out this year with 20.1 points and 9.9 boards. But this squad needs something to really shake things up, and Zion Williamson might be that dude. Sure, he’s only played six games this season, but he’s still dropping 22.7 points, 8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists when he’s out there.
To get Zion, the Hawks would be giving up De’Andre Hunter (19.2 points, 4.2 boards, 1.3 assists) and Onyeka Okongwu (11.3 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.4 assists), plus two future firsts. It’s a bold move, no doubt. If Zion can stay healthy, he’d be the perfect inside force to pair with Trae, and the Hawks’ offense would be ridiculous. But if he keeps missing games? Yeah, this could backfire big time.
Boston Celtics
Potential Trade Offer: None
The Celtics are rolling this season, sitting at 19-4 and holding the second spot in the East. Fresh off their 18th NBA championship, they've kept their core intact, with Jayson Tatum leading the charge, averaging 28.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game. Jaylen Brown has been a key contributor as well, despite some recent controversy over a gesture during a game against the Pistons.
Financially, the Celtics are up against the second apron, making it nearly impossible to take on Zion Williamson's $36 million salary without sending out an equivalent amount, and not able to pile up salaries in a potential deal either. Given Zion's injury history and inconsistency, Boston isn't likely to break up their championship-winning core for such a high-risk move. So, any dreams of Zion donning green are pretty much dead in the water.
Brooklyn Nets
Potential Trade Offer: Cameron Johnson, Cam Thomas, Ziaire Williams, 2025 First-Round Pick (via MIL)
The Nets are 10-13 this season, clinging to the 8th spot in the East, but it’s clear they’re stuck in no man’s land. Cam Thomas has been a bright spot, leading the team with 24.7 points per game, and there’s been buzz that Brooklyn is shopping him to see what they can get in return. Cameron Johnson, who’s putting up 18.5 points while shooting 43.1% from deep, also adds value to any trade discussions.
What makes the Nets interesting in the Zion sweepstakes is their flexibility. With Ben Simmons' massive $40M contract set to expire after this season, Brooklyn will have serious cap space to work with. Whether they use it to chase a big-name free agent like Jimmy Butler or as leverage in another blockbuster trade, Zion could be the first domino in a bigger plan.
Brooklyn has also stockpiled a ton of draft picks after the Durant-Irving era, which gives them options. Pairing Zion with another star—maybe even someone like Trae Young if they go all-in—could instantly shift their trajectory. It’s a risky move for a franchise still figuring out its identity, but taking a swing at Zion might be the kind of bold step they need to finally pick a direction.
Charlotte Hornets
Potential Trade Offer: Miles Bridges, Vasilije Micic, 2027 First-Round Pick (via MIA), 2027 First-Round Pick (via DAL), 2029 First-Round Pick
The Hornets are struggling this season, sitting at 6-17 and 14th in the East. To make matters worse, LaMelo Ball is out again, this time with a left calf strain that will sideline him for at least a couple of weeks. Before the injury, Ball was playing like a superstar, averaging 31.1 points, 6.9 assists, and 8 rebounds. But without him, this team doesn’t have the firepower to stay competitive.
Trading for Zion would be a typical small-market move: overpaying for a star to make a splash. The package includes Miles Bridges, who recently returned to the team but brings baggage off the court, and Vasilije Micic, a skilled guard but not a franchise-changing player. The three first-round picks would sweeten the deal, but adding Zion comes with risks—his health issues and inconsistency are well-documented.
For Charlotte, pairing Zion with LaMelo could give them one of the most exciting duos in the league, but it’s a big gamble. They’d need Zion to stay on the court and hope the chemistry works, or else it’s another setback for a franchise that’s been stuck in rebuild mode for what feels like forever.
Chicago Bulls
Potential Trade Offer: Lonzo Ball, Coby White, 2025 First-Round Pick (via POR), 2025 Second-Round Pick (via SAC)
The Bulls are 10-14 and stuck in that awkward spot where they’re not bad enough to tank but not good enough to compete. Zach LaVine is doing his thing with 21.8 points per game, and Vucevic has been solid with 21.3 points and 9.8 boards, but the team just can’t find consistency.
A Zion trade could shake things up big time. There’s been talk before about Zion wanting to play for the Bulls, and pairing him with LaVine and Vucevic would give Chicago one of the most exciting cores in the East. Lonzo’s inclusion is more about salary at this point, but Coby White (18.3 points, 4.7 assists) and the picks could make the deal work for New Orleans.
It’s a risky move for the Bulls, especially with Zion’s health being a huge question mark, but if it clicks, they could finally break out of mediocrity. For a team like Chicago, sometimes you just gotta roll the dice.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Potential Trade Offer: None
The Cavs are on fire this season, boasting an 21-3 record and leading the Eastern Conference. They recently avenged an earlier loss by defeating the Boston Celtics 115-111, with Donovan Mitchell dropping 35 points, including 20 in the fourth quarter. Their defense is locking teams down, and the offense is clicking, making them a legit contender.
With a solid frontcourt featuring Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, adding Zion Williamson doesn't make much sense. Mobley is averaging 18.8 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game, while Allen contributes 13.7 points and 10.5 rebounds. Both are healthy and performing well, unlike Zion, who's been dealing with injuries and is currently out with a hamstring issue.
Trading for Zion would mean disrupting a successful lineup and taking on the risk of his health problems. For a team that's already contending and has no frontcourt issues, it's just not worth it.
Dallas Mavericks
Potential Trade Offer: P.J. Washington, Daniel Gafford, Dwight Powell, 2031 First-Round Pick
The Mavs are sitting pretty at 16-8, holding the 2nd seed in the West, and Luka Doncic is doing Luka things, putting up monster numbers night after night. He’s averaging 28.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 7.8 assists this season, keeping the Mavs in contention. Meanwhile, Kyrie Irving has been a solid second option, and the team has looked like a legit threat in the Western Conference.
Trading for Zion Williamson, though? That’s a tricky one. The proposed package includes P.J. Washington, Daniel Gafford, and Dwight Powell—solid role players but not exactly game-changers for New Orleans. While adding Zion to a Luka-Kyrie-led team sounds great on paper, the Mavs already have a functional frontcourt rotation, and Zion’s health issues make this a risky move.
For Dallas, this feels like a gamble they don’t need to take. They’re already contenders with their current roster, and disrupting that chemistry for a player who’s barely been available might not be worth it. If Zion could stay healthy, sure, the ceiling would be sky-high, but that’s a huge “if” for a team already chasing a championship window.
Denver Nuggets
Potential Trade Offer: Aaron Gordon, Zeke Nnaji, Dario Saric, 2031 First-Round Pick
The Nuggets are 11-10 this season, sitting 9th in the West, and while Jokic is doing MVP things again with 31.4 points, 13.6 rebounds, and 10.3 assists per game, the team has been inconsistent. They’ve had some great wins but also bad losses, like a 145-118 blowout to the Knicks where their defense was practically nonexistent.
The proposed trade package sends Aaron Gordon—arguably their best defender and a perfect fit next to Jokic—along with solid role players like Zeke Nnaji and Dario Saric, plus a 2031 first-round pick. For Denver, though, it doesn’t make sense. Zion’s talent is undeniable, but his injury issues are a huge red flag, and the Nuggets already have a strong frontcourt built around Jokic. Losing Gordon would leave a massive hole defensively, and Zion isn’t exactly a reliable replacement.
This is a team that’s already a contender. There’s no need to gamble on a move like this when the core is working—they just need to find consistency and stay healthy.
Detroit Pistons
Potential Trade Offer: Tim Hardaway Jr., Isaiah Stewart, Jalen Duren, 2027 First-Round Pick
The Pistons are having another rough season, sitting at 9-15 and 11th in the East. Cade Cunningham is doing everything he can, averaging 23.7 points, 9.1 assists, and 7.2 rebounds, but he’s practically carrying the team on his back. Jalen Duren has been a bright spot, putting up 8.7 points and 9.2 rebounds per game, while Isaiah Stewart is losing ground with 6.3 points and 6.2 boards, but it hasn’t been enough to turn things around.
Trading for Zion Williamson could be exactly what this team needs. Pairing him with Cade would give Detroit a star duo to build around, and his explosive style of play could energize a franchise that’s been stuck in rebuild mode for years. The proposed package sends Hardaway’s expiring deal, Stewart, and Duren to the Pelicans along with a first-round pick in 2027. While losing Duren might sting, Zion’s upside makes it a gamble worth considering for the Pistons.
For New Orleans, the deal brings back two young bigs with potential and a first-rounder, giving them assets to retool their roster. However, with Zion’s health being a constant question mark, this trade is a risk for both sides—but one that could change the trajectory of the Pistons if it works out.
Golden State Warriors
Potential Trade Offer: Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga, Lindy Waters III, 2025 First-Round Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick
The Warriors are sitting at 13-9 this season, 5th in the West. It’s been a mixed bag—Steph Curry is still doing his thing, leading the team with 22.6 points and 6.6 assists per game, but consistency hasn’t been their strong suit. They’ve dropped games to contenders like Denver and Phoenix recently, and their depth hasn’t stepped up the way they’d hoped.
Jonathan Kuminga has been in trade talks lately, and with no extension done before the season, his future in Golden State looks shaky. He’s averaging 13.8 points and 4.2 rebounds this season, but his role has been inconsistent. Andrew Wiggins, meanwhile, is putting up 17.2 points and 4.3 boards but hasn’t quite looked like his All-Star self, which has fueled some trade rumors.
Adding Zion Williamson would be a wild move for the Warriors. Pairing his explosive inside game with Steph’s shooting and playmaking could make this team lethal, but it’s a huge risk. Zion’s injury history is no joke, and giving up Wiggins and Kuminga plus picks is a steep price.
For the Pelicans, this deal would give them a mix of proven talent in Wiggins, a high-upside young player in Kuminga, and future draft capital to retool. But for the Warriors, it all depends on whether Zion can stay on the court—and that’s the gamble they’d have to live with. If it works, though, it could be the kind of move that puts them right back in the title hunt.
Houston Rockets
Potential Trade Offer: Dillon Brooks, Jabari Smith Jr., Cam Whitmore, 2025 First-Round Pick
The Rockets are cooking this season with a 15-8 record, sitting 2nd in the West and showing they’re legit under Ime Udoka. Jalen Green’s averaging 19.0 points, Alperen Sengun is doing it all with 19 points and 10.7 boards, and Dillon Brooks is surprising everyone by playing the best two-way ball of his career.
Houston’s been all over trade rumors lately. They’re one of the top teams mentioned (along with Dallas) as potential suitors for Jimmy Butler, but nothing’s close yet. As for Giannis? The Rockets reportedly don’t want to blow up their young core for him, which makes sense given how well this group is clicking.
Then there’s Zion. The proposed deal sends Dillon Brooks, Jabari Smith Jr., and Cam Whitmore to New Orleans along with a 2025 first-round pick. It’s a bold move that could give the Rockets another star to pair with Green and Sengun. Zion’s talent is undeniable, but his health is a massive question mark.
For the Pelicans, this trade is solid. Brooks is an elite defender, Smith Jr. has loads of potential, and Whitmore is a promising sophomore. For Houston, though, it’s about whether they trust Zion to stay healthy and deliver on his potential. If it works, this team could make serious noise in the West—but it’s a risky play when their current squad is already thriving.
Indiana Pacers
Potential Trade Offer: Myles Turner, Obi Toppin, Ben Sheppard, 2025 First-Round Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick
The Pacers have had a rough start to the season, sitting at 10-14 and struggling to regain the magic of last year’s surprise trip to the Eastern Conference Finals. Tyrese Haliburton, usually their engine, hasn’t looked as sharp, averaging 17.8 points and 8.4 assists this year, but the team’s inconsistent defense and lack of secondary scoring options have been glaring issues.
Myles Turner, one of their key players, is set to become a free agent after this season, which puts the Pacers in a tough spot. Do they pay to keep him long-term, or use him as a trade piece before he walks? Adding Zion to pair with Pascal Siakam could solve some of their frontcourt questions. Siakam is averaging 20.1 points and 6.3 rebounds, but the Pacers lack an inside presence to really dominate.
For the Pelicans, this package makes a lot of sense. Turner would immediately give them a defensive anchor, and Toppin brings athleticism and energy. Ben Sheppard, along with two first-round picks, adds to their long-term assets.
A Zion-Siakam frontcourt in Indiana could be deadly, especially with Haliburton feeding them the ball. The Pacers have shown they’re willing to take big swings—this could be their next one.
Los Angeles Clippers
Potential Trade Offer: None
When Paul George left for the 76ers in free agency and Kawhi Leonard went down in the preseason with a knee injury, no one expected the Clippers to be sitting at 14-10 and 7th in the West right now. But here they are, defying the odds. James Harden has been leading the way, averaging 21.5 points and 8.5 assists, while the supporting cast has stepped up big time, like Norman Powell scoring 23 points a night. Their defense has been solid, and they’ve built a nine-game home winning streak, showing this team still has fight left in them.
Going after Zion Williamson? It just doesn’t make sense. The Clippers already gave up a ton of draft capital in the Paul George trade, and adding another player with availability concerns wouldn’t help a team already navigating injuries. Instead, they’ve leaned on depth and chemistry to stay competitive, and shaking things up could mess with what’s been working.
Los Angeles Lakers
Potential Trade Offer: None
With LeBron James and Anthony Davis leading the charge, the Lakers don't need another non-shooter like Zion Williamson. LeBron, nearing 40, has been in a shooting slump, missing his last 19 three-point attempts and scoring under 20 points in five of his last six games. Anthony Davis has his own injury history, making a move for Zion, who also has availability concerns, a risky proposition.
Rumors are swirling that LeBron might retire after this season, especially given his recent struggles and the Lakers' inconsistent performance. If he does hang it up, the Lakers might consider a big move like trading for Zion to pair with AD. But for now, adding another player with shooting limitations and health questions doesn't fit their current roster dynamics.
## Brandon Ingram Could Leave The Pelicans To Join More Competitive Team
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Memphis Grizzlies
Potential Trade Offer: Marcus Smart, Brandon Clarke, 2025 1st-Round Pick, 2026 1st-Round Pick (via PHX/WAS/ORL), 2028 1st-Round Pick
The Grizzlies are rolling this season with a solid 15-8 record, sitting fourth in the West. Even with Ja Morant missing time earlier, they’ve held their own thanks to their depth and defense. Jaren Jackson Jr. is locking down the paint, and Desmond Bane’s been killing it as their go-to scorer.
Marcus Smart has been doing his thing since joining Memphis, averaging 9.8 points, 4.5 assists, and 2.5 boards in 13 games. His shooting’s been a little rough (37.9% FG, 32.3% from deep), but his grit and leadership are invaluable. Brandon Clarke has been steady off the bench, putting up 6.7 points and 4.6 rebounds while shooting an impressive 59.3% from the field.
Trading for Zion would be a huge move, but giving up Smart, Clarke, and all those picks could mess with their team chemistry. The Grizzlies are all about defense and balance right now, so pulling the trigger on a trade like this might not be their vibe.
Miami Heat
Potential Trade Offer: Tyler Herro, Haywood Highsmith, Kel'el Ware, 2029 First-Round Pick
The Heat are 11-10 right now, sitting 7th in the East, and Tyler Herro has been absolutely cooking this season. He’s putting up 23.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game while shooting 46.7% from the field and a crazy 42% from deep. Herro’s been the lifeline for Miami’s offense, especially with some of the inconsistencies they’ve had this season.
Now, a Zion trade? It sounds flashy, but let’s be real—it could be messy. Pairing Zion with Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo in the frontcourt might create more problems than it solves. None of them are shooters, so the spacing would be a disaster. Defenses would just pack the paint, and suddenly Miami’s offense is stuck in quicksand.
On top of that, Jimmy’s dealing with a knee issue, and this team already has its fair share of injury woes. Adding Zion, who’s got his own long list of injuries, might be a gamble they can’t afford right now. Losing Herro’s shooting would also hit them hard since they don’t have many reliable scorers beyond him.
All in all, this trade feels like a bad fit for where the Heat are right now. Zion’s potential is sky-high, but for Miami, the timing and fit just don’t seem right.
Milwaukee Bucks
Potential Trade Offer: None
The Bucks are out of the Zion conversation, plain and simple. Sitting at 11-11, they’ve been finding their rhythm after a rocky start, especially with Damian Lillard stepping up big time as the team’s new leader. With Khris Middleton just making his season debut last Friday, they’re likely waiting to see how the team gels once he’s in sync before making any big moves.
Also, don’t forget the financial handcuffs – Milwaukee’s already stuck over the second apron, which pretty much kills any chance of adding Zion’s massive contract. Right now, they don’t need to gamble on another star when the pieces they have are finally starting to click.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Potential Trade Offer: None
The Timberwolves are stuck over the second salary cap apron, so making a move for Zion Williamson isn’t even on the table. They can’t take on more salary, and they’re already dealing with enough drama as it is.
Since trading Karl-Anthony Towns to the Knicks for Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo, things haven’t exactly clicked. Chemistry issues have been a big problem, with reports of tension between Randle and Rudy Gobert on the court. Add to that a rough 12-10 record and frustration from Anthony Edwards, who’s been calling out the team for not playing as a unit, and you’ve got a team that needs to fix its own problems before thinking about adding anyone else.
Right now, the Timberwolves need to focus on getting their act together. A trade for Zion would just be a distraction they don’t need, especially when they’re still trying to figure out how to make their current pieces work.
New York Knicks
Potential Trade Offer: OG Anunoby, 2025 First-Round Pick (via DET), 2025 First-Round Pick (via WAS)
The Knicks have had an impressive start to the season, sitting at 14-9 and boasting one of the most efficient offenses in the league. With Jalen Brunson leading, and Karl-Anthony Towns contributing 25.2 points and 13.2 rebounds, the Knicks are showing they can compete in the East with the top teams. OG Anunoby has been a game-changer on both ends, with his defensive presence and ability to contribute offensively, as seen in his recent 25-point outing against Charlotte.
This trade package could land them Zion Williamson, who, when healthy, is one of the most dominant paint scorers in the league. Pairing Zion with Brunson and Towns could give the Knicks a Big Three that’s capable of dominating inside and out. Zion’s ability to draw defenses into the paint would open up the floor for Brunson’s mid-range game and Towns’ outside shooting.
However, there are risks. Anunoby is a crucial part of the Knicks’ defensive identity, and Zion’s fit with Towns might raise questions defensively, especially against teams with stretch bigs or high-speed offenses. Still, the ceiling for a lineup featuring Zion, Brunson, and Towns is undeniably high and could elevate the Knicks from a playoff team to a legitimate contender in the East.
Orlando Magic
Potential Trade Offer: Jonathan Isaac, Moritz Wagner, 2025 First-Round Pick (via DEN), 2025 First-Round Pick, 2026 First-Round Pick (via PHX or WAS) for Zion Williamson
This trade could be an absolute game-changer for the Magic, especially considering Paolo Banchero’s oblique injury, which has left them missing a true offensive force. With a 16-9 record, Orlando is showing they’re ready to take that leap into serious contention, and bringing in Zion would send shockwaves through the league. Pairing him with Franz Wagner gives the Magic a ridiculously versatile and dynamic frontcourt that could terrorize defenses for years.
Jonathan Isaac, while elite defensively when healthy, hasn’t been able to stay on the floor consistently. Moritz Wagner is a nice piece, but his ceiling is nowhere near Zion’s, and those picks? Sure, they’re valuable, but Orlando’s timeline suggests they might not need to hoard them anymore. They’re in a position to go all-in, and Zion, when locked in, is a player who can single-handedly shift a franchise’s trajectory.
For the Pelicans, this deal gives them future flexibility and Isaac’s defensive presence, but it also signals that they’re ready to move on from a player who was supposed to be their cornerstone. While it’s a hard pill to swallow, they’d at least walk away with assets to retool around Brandon Ingram and their young pieces.
Philadelphia 76ers
Potential Trade Offer: None
The Sixers are having a rough go this season. At 6-15, they’re barely hanging on, and injuries have been killing them. Joel Embiid’s played just four games thanks to some nagging knee issues, which is a brutal blow considering how much they rely on him. Paul George finally came back after dealing with a bone bruise, and he dropped 29 points against the Hornets in his return—so at least there’s that—but this team just can’t find any consistency. Tyrese Maxey’s been doing his thing, coming back healthy and playing great, but even his efforts aren’t enough to fix what’s broken right now.
When it comes to Zion, the math just doesn’t add up. Philly can’t swing a deal without including Embiid, Maxey, or George, and let’s be real—that’s not happening. Plus, with all the injury problems and the shaky chemistry, adding Zion’s big contract and health question marks would be way too risky. The Sixers need to figure out their current mess before thinking about any big moves like this.
Phoenix Suns
Potential Trade Offer: None
The Suns are in a weird spot right now. They just lost a tight one to the Pelicans, 126-124, in a game where Devin Booker dropped 28 points and Bradley Beal added 24. Kevin Durant is still out with a sprained ankle and isn’t expected back for at least a week. Jusuf Nurkic is also sidelined with a thigh issue, but he’s likely to return around December 10. With their record sitting at 12-9, they’re managing to stay competitive, but the injuries are definitely testing their depth.
Financially, the Suns are stuck. Being over the second salary cap apron means they can’t add big contracts like Zion Williamson’s $36.7 million deal without moving significant pieces. Nurkic is their only real trade chip, but even his contract wouldn’t be enough to make a Zion trade work.
Right now, the Suns just need to get healthy and see what this squad looks like with Durant back on the floor. Making a splashy trade for Zion isn’t even on the table for them.
Portland Trail Blazers
Potential Trade Offer: Jerami Grant, Shaedon Sharpe, 2027 First-Round Pick
The Blazers are sitting at 8-15, clearly in rebuild mode, but they’ve got some fun pieces. Scoot Henderson is trying to find his groove as a rookie, Shaedon Sharpe keeps flashing big potential, and Jerami Grant has been steady, putting up 15.8 points and 3.5 rebounds a night. The problem? They’re still missing that superstar to build around.
Swinging for Zion could change everything. Pairing him with Scoot and Anfernee Simons might finally give Portland a foundation to make noise in the West again. But giving up Sharpe, who’s already looking like a big part of their future, plus Grant’s steady presence, is a tough pill to swallow.
For the Pelicans, this deal would bring a defensive-minded vet in Grant, a young scorer in Sharpe, and a future first-round pick to reset their roster. It’s a tempting package for a team that might be ready to move on from Zion’s rollercoaster ride.
Sacramento Kings
Potential Trade Offer: Malik Monk, Kevin Huerter, Orlando Robinson, 2026 First-Round Pick, 2028 First-Round Pick, 2030 First-Round Pick
The Kings’ first season with DeMar DeRozan hasn’t gone as planned. Sitting at 11-13 and 12th in the West, they’re struggling to build momentum. DeRozan’s been solid, averaging 22.7 points, 4.2 assists, and 4.2 rebounds, but the team’s spacing and defense remain major issues. Fox is balling, but the supporting cast hasn’t been consistent enough to push them into playoff contention.
Trading for Zion Williamson would definitely shake things up, but letting go of Monk and Huerter—two of their most reliable shooters—could backfire hard. The Kings already have spacing issues, and losing two perimeter threats for a paint-dominant player like Zion might make things even tougher. Sure, Zion’s dominance inside could help, but the risk is huge considering Sacramento’s struggles to gel as a unit this season.
San Antonio Spurs
Potential Trade Offer: Keldon Johnson, Jeremy Sochan, Malaki Branham, Charles Bassey, 2025 First-Round Pick (via CHA), 2025 First-Round Pick (via CHI)
This would be a wild move for the Spurs. They’re already looking solid this season at 11-12, with Wemby absolutely balling out—he’s averaging 23.5 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 3.5 blocks, making it clear why he was the most hyped prospect in years. Keldon Johnson has been their go-to scorer off the bench, dropping 12.8 points a night, but pairing Zion with Wemby could take this team to another level. Imagine Zion attacking the paint while Wemby stretches the floor and protects the rim—nightmare fuel for opposing defenses.
Now, giving up Keldon, Sochan, Branham, and picks isn’t a small price to pay, but Zion’s upside is huge if he stays on the court. Sure, there’d be spacing issues with Zion and Wemby not being big-time shooters, but their size, skill, and athleticism would overpower most lineups. Plus, Wemby’s ability to play inside and out would make the fit work. It’s a gamble for the Spurs, but one that could make them a playoff lock and maybe even a contender sooner than expected.
For the Pelicans, this deal gives them a solid reset. Keldon’s a legit wing, Sochan is a defensive beast in the making, and Branham brings intriguing upside. Throw in those picks, and New Orleans gets some flexibility to build their roster around Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum. This deal is a win-win if both sides are ready to take the leap.
Toronto Raptors
Potential Trade Offer: Jakob Poeltl, Kelly Olynyk, Ochai Agbaji, 2025 First-Round Pick, 2026 First-Round Pick (via IND)
The Raptors are struggling this season with a rough 7-16 record, sitting way outside playoff contention in the East. RJ Barrett is doing his thing, averaging 23.6 points, and Jakob Poeltl is locking down the boards with 11.8 rebounds, but it’s clear this roster just isn’t clicking. They need a shake-up, and Zion Williamson might be exactly that.
Giving up Poeltl and Olynyk hurts since Poeltl anchors their defense and Olynyk brings flexibility, but Zion brings star power and the kind of offensive dominance the Raptors lack. Pairing him with Barrett and Scottie Barnes could finally give this team the firepower to make some noise. For the Pelicans, two first-round picks and solid vets like Poeltl make for a nice return as they start to retool. It’s risky, but the Raptors might just need to roll the dice on a big move like this.
Utah Jazz
Potential Trade Offer: John Collins, Taylor Hendricks, Cody Williams, 2025 First-Round Pick (via MIN), 2025 First-Round Pick (via CLE), 2026 First-Round Pick
The Jazz are in a rough spot, sitting at 5-17 and dead last in the West. Lauri Markkanen has been doing his thing, averaging 19.2 points and 6.5 rebounds, but it’s clear this team is stuck. After signing his extension this summer, Markkanen needs some real help, and Zion could be exactly that—a high-risk, high-reward move to finally give Utah some excitement again.
Pairing Zion with Markkanen could actually be deadly. Lauri can stretch the floor while Zion does his thing in the paint. Sure, it’s a gamble—giving up Hendricks, Williams, and all those picks isn’t easy—but the Jazz aren’t going anywhere with their current setup. Adding a guy like Zion could be a game-changer for a franchise that’s been spinning its wheels.
For the Pelicans, this trade gives them some nice building blocks. Hendricks has upside, Williams could grow into something solid, and the picks give them flexibility. If the Jazz are feeling bold, this could be the kind of move that shakes up their future.
Washington Wizards
Potential Trade Offer: Kyle Kuzma, Richaun Holmes, 2026 First-Round Pick (via PHX), 2026 First-Round Pick, 2028 First-Round Pick (via PHX, BKN, or PHI)
The Wizards are struggling big time this season, sitting at 3-18 and looking like a team with no clear direction. Kuzma has been their bright spot, averaging solid numbers and trying to carry an otherwise underwhelming roster. But it’s obvious this group isn’t built to win now—or anytime soon. Trading for Zion could give them a much-needed spark and finally add some excitement to the franchise.
Pairing Zion with Jordan Poole could create a fun, chaotic duo that at least gives fans something to cheer for. Sure, giving up Kuzma and picks is steep, but Washington’s current core isn’t moving the needle anyway. Zion’s star power and potential upside could make this gamble worth it, especially for a franchise desperate for relevance.
For the Pelicans, this package offers solid role players in Kuzma and Holmes, plus three first-rounders to keep building for the future. It’s not a bad return for a team that may need to hit the reset button if they move Zion.
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By Fran Leiva
Francisco Leiva, a staff writer at Fadeaway World, brings a fresh and insightful perspective on NBA dynamics and team strategies. A recent graduate of the University of Buenos Aires, Fran combines his deep knowledge of local leagues and his passion inspired by basketball legends to deliver in-depth and engaging content. Since joining the team in 2023, his expert analyses and unique viewpoints have quickly made him a favorite among basketball lovers.