The New York Knicks and Chicago Bulls are among several NBA teams interested in trading for Pelicans center Yves Missi, sources say. Alongside the Indiana Pacers and Toronto Raptors, these franchises are monitoring the 21-year-old’s status as New Orleans explores potential deals.
Pelicans Hold Out for Future Draft Compensation
The Pelicans are reportedly demanding a future first-round pick in any trade involving Missi, though no current offers meet their expectations. This stance signals New Orleans’ intent to maximize long-term value from the emerging player.
Trade Interest in Missi Remains Active but Limited
“The Bulls, Knicks, Pacers and Raptors are among the teams continuing to show trade interest in Yves Missi.The Pelicans are holding out for a future 1st in any potential deal involving Missi, but no team has upped their offer thus far.” ?Evan Sidery, NBA Insider
Despite ongoing talks, no team has proposed a package that satisfies the Pelicans, indicating a challenging negotiation atmosphere.
Yves Missi’s Role and Performance with New Orleans
Currently in the second year of a four-year, $15.6 million rookie contract, Missi has the Pelicans’ team option secured for the third season. This campaign, he is averaging 5.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game across 44 appearances, mostly serving as a backup and shooting efficiently at 54 percent from the field.
Pelicans’ Rebuilding Efforts Influence Trade Strategy
New Orleans holds the bottom spot in the Western Conference at 13–39, creating urgency to reassess player assets. The team boasts a frontcourt rotation including Trey Murphy III, Zion Williamson, Saddiq Bey, and Derik Queen, all receiving substantial playing time. Missi functions as a complement, but the Pelicans prefer leveraging his growth to acquire future draft capital amid their rebuilding phase.
Potential Outcomes of the Trade Discussions
The trade talks involving Yves Missi highlight the Pelicans’ strategy to rebuild through youth and draft assets while other teams seek to bolster their rosters. If a suitable offer emerges, it could reshape the frontcourt dynamics for both trading partners and reflect evolving priorities in the league’s mid-season moves.
The Bulls, Knicks, Pacers and Raptors are among the teams continuing to show trade interest in Yves Missi.
The Pelicans are holding out for a future 1st in any potential deal involving Missi, but no team has upped their offer thus far. pic.twitter.com/KKLC9OjS9J
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) February 4, 2026
