The New Orleans Pelicans are reportedly preparing to part ways with Zion Williamson as the team struggles during the 2025-26 NBA season. With a disappointing 13-39 record, the Pelicans find themselves near the bottom of the conference standings, and the front office appears eager for a significant change to reverse their fortunes.
The Pelicans, who have reached the playoffs only twice since 2020, now seem poised to begin a rebuilding phase by exploring trade opportunities for Williamson, once regarded as the cornerstone of the franchise.
Trade Discussions May Intensify Ahead of the NBA Draft
Industry sources, as reported by Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus, indicate that multiple NBA executives believe the Pelicans are ready to move on from Williamson, though a trade is unlikely before the league’s upcoming deadline. Instead, the consensus points to the Pelicans negotiating a deal during the offseason, potentially around the June draft period.
Most competing executives believe the New Orleans Pelicans are ready to move on from Zion Williamson,
Pincus wrote.
But will Williamson be moved by the deadline? The consensus, thus far, has been ‘no.’ Instead, look for Williamson to be shopped ahead of the draft in June.
?Eric Pincus, NBA Insider
Williamson’s Early Promise Undercut by Persistent Injuries
When Williamson was drafted first overall in 2019, many expected him to become the foundational star capable of leading the Pelicans for years. His second season, the 2020-21 campaign, offered a glimpse of that potential—he earned an All-Star nod while averaging 27.0 points and shooting 61.1 percent across 61 games.
Nonetheless, injuries and limited playing time have defined much of Williamson’s career since then. He missed the entire 2021-22 season, participated in only 29 games in 2022-23, followed by a 70-game season in 2023-24, and then appeared in 30 games in 2024-25. This inconsistency has made it difficult for him to solidify a leadership role.
Despite his undeniable talent, health concerns have prevented Williamson from maintaining the presence many envisioned when he was drafted, leading to growing doubts about his long-term fit for the franchise.
Complexities of Trading Williamson Due to Contract and Salary Cap
Trading Williamson will likely be easier during the offseason when teams have more flexibility with their rosters and finances. His current contract, signed in 2022, guarantees $197,230,450 over five years and still has two years remaining beyond this season. Any team interested in acquiring Williamson will need significant salary cap space to absorb such a substantial deal.
This financial factor adds complexity to trade negotiations, but the Pelicans’ desire for a fresh start could motivate them to find a deal that benefits both sides.
Implications for the Pelicans and NBA Landscape Moving Forward
The decision to move on from a former number one overall pick like Zion Williamson marks a pivotal moment for the New Orleans Pelicans’ franchise. The potential trade could accelerate a rebuild and open opportunities to acquire new talent at the draft or via other trades. For Williamson, a change of scenery might offer a chance for a fresh start with a team willing to accommodate his contract and maximize his impact when healthy.
As the offseason approaches, the league will be watching closely to see how the Pelicans approach this key transition and what moves they make to reshape their roster and strategy after multiple seasons of underperformance.
