The New Orleans Pelicans had a season from hell. After making some big moves to try and bring themselves out of NBA mediocrity, injuries plagued them to another losing season. After another disappointing season, the New Orleans Pelicans' trade rumors are at an all-time high. The team desperately needs something to change because their current core isn’t winning them a championship, and probably isn’t landing them a top lottery pick.
One player who has been mentioned in multiple New Orleans Pelicans trade rumors is Trey Murphy III. Murphy is one of the last positive assets on the roster. Trading him could be the one way for the Pelicans to rebuild for the future.
Andy Bailey of Bleacher Report wrote about a Pelicans trade idea that will potentially set them up better down the road.
Bailey’s Pelicans trade looks like this:
Trey Murphy III and Kelly Olynyk for Michael Porter Jr., Peyton Watson, a 2031 first-round pick swap, and a 2032 first-round pick
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
This Pelicans-Murphy trade idea could be a great opportunity for the Pelicans to rebuild. Getting MPJ, Watson, and future picks is quite the haul for Murphy.
MPJ is only 26 years old, is an NBA champion, and is one of the best shooters in the league. Watson is a 22-year-old who played a key role on the Denver Nuggets' playoff roster. On top of that, the Nuggets would be throwing in one unprotected pick and one swap.
Those two picks are what make this Pelicans trade rumor extra intriguing. Right now, the Nuggets' draft picks aren’t that valuable. However, in 2031 and 2032, Nikola Jokić will likely be past his prime. Who knows if the Nuggets will still be perennial playoff contenders?
Whether the Nuggets would agree to this Pelicans-Murphy trade is another question. But if the Pelicans can get young players and picks of significant value for Murphy, it is a trade they need to consider strongly.
More NBA: This Warriors trade idea swaps controversial forward for two-time All-Star center