The New Orleans Pelicans, who hold a 12-37 record this season, are expected to be active sellers during the February 5 NBA trade deadline. However, recent reports indicate that the team has no intention of trading their prominent players, including Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III, and Herb Jones, before the deadline arrives. According to William Guillory of The Athletic, sources reveal it is unlikely the Pelicans will part ways with these key forwards, despite their status as sellers.
Pelicans Committed to Building Around Young Talent and First-Round Picks
New Orleans is committed to constructing its future around promising young talent and highly regarded 2025 first-round draft picks Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen. The organization believes that Murphy, Jones, and Williamson
“can be foundational pieces of the puzzle moving forward.”
Guillory highlights this as a clear indication that the Pelicans view these players as central to their team’s long-term plans.
Injuries and Performance Issues Impact Zion Williamson’s Season
Zion Williamson, the first overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, continues to struggle with injuries this season, resulting in inconsistent availability. Despite these setbacks, Williamson is leading the Pelicans in scoring with an average of 22.0 points per game, solidifying the team’s reluctance to trade him at this stage.
Trade Rumors Surrounding Ja Morant Debunked
The Pelicans have been linked to Memphis Grizzlies star point guard Ja Morant, who was selected immediately after Williamson in the 2019 draft. However, Guillory cites a league source dismissing these speculations as completely false. The chances of acquiring Morant are
“extremely low because the team believes in Fears as its point guard of the future.”
This stance clarifies New Orleans’ intention to develop Jeremiah Fears rather than pursue a high-profile trade for Morant.
Interest in Center Yves Missi and Contract Concerns for Veteran Guards
The Pelicans are reportedly receiving trade inquiries for center Yves Missi, with the Indiana Pacers, Toronto Raptors, and New York Knicks among the teams expressing interest. Nevertheless, it is not guaranteed that New Orleans will move Missi before the deadline. Additionally, there is growing anticipation that the Pelicans will attempt to trade veteran guards Jordan Poole and Dejounte Murray, primarily due to their substantial contract obligations.
Approaching Deadline Intensifies Trade Activity Pressure
With the February 5 trade deadline nearing rapidly, the Pelicans face increasing pressure as other NBA teams seek to acquire promising young players. However, New Orleans appears determined to keep its core intact and focus on long-term development, signaling a cautious approach despite their current standing.
