As the 2026 NBA trade deadline approaches, the New Orleans Pelicans face critical decisions regarding their roster, especially amid a disappointing 12-36 start that places them at the bottom of the Western Conference. Although many suggest the team should focus on selling assets, it is crucial that the Pelicans hold onto Saddiq Bey through the deadline to preserve their future potential.
Unexpected Impact From a Former Afterthought
Saddiq Bey joined New Orleans during the 2025 offseason as part of the trade involving Jordan Poole and CJ McCollum, initially considered little more than a throw-in given his recent ACL injury and absence from meaningful play throughout much of the previous year. Yet, Bey’s performance this season has defied all expectations, proving his value far beyond what many anticipated.
Currently, Bey averages 15.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, while shooting efficiently with 45.1 percent from the field and 33.8 percent from beyond the arc. He has delivered 13 games scoring 20 points or more, including a recent stretch where he averaged 26.7 points over three contests, underscoring his emergence as a key offensive weapon.
The Danger of Letting Go of Reliable Production
In today’s volatile trade environment, teams often part with valuable contributors for marginal returns. Take the recent example of Trae Young’s trade for expiring contracts and no draft picks, which serves as a cautionary tale for the Pelicans. Trading Bey would likely yield only minor second-round selections, far from sufficient to offset the loss of his consistent output.
Many rebuilding franchises make the error of selling all assets to accumulate numerous late-round draft picks, which rarely translate into impactful players. While acquiring first-round picks should remain a priority, trading a player like Bey — who has repeatedly delivered clutch performances, such as his 19-point fourth quarter against Memphis — would be shortsighted and detrimental.
Exceptional Value in Bey’s Contract and Role
Another factor working in Bey’s favor is his affordable contract, locked in for the next two seasons at just $6.33 million annually, making him one of the league’s most cost-effective contributors. This combination of high-level production and reasonable salary is rare and strengthens the case for his retention as the Pelicans develop their young core.
For New Orleans, successful rebuilding is not merely about accumulating draft picks but also nurturing players who fit well within the system and demonstrate growth potential alongside emerging talent. Saddiq Bey exemplifies this approach and should be considered a foundational piece rather than a disposable asset.
Maintaining Bey’s presence on the team could provide stability and scoring punch, supporting the Pelicans’ efforts to build a competitive and sustainable squad moving forward. As the trade deadline nears, the front office’s decision on Bey will likely have a lasting impact on their trajectory.
"Just trusting in God man. I am just grateful to be out here. I was thinking about it this morning how grateful I am to be playing these games… Every possession, every game, I am trying to make the most of it and make God proud"
— Saddiq Bey on his 19 point 4th quarter pic.twitter.com/ZtxdGAOZKl
— Pelicans Film Room (@PelsFilmRoom) January 24, 2026
