Despite the buzz that’s been swirling, the New Orleans Pelicans are making one thing clear: they’re not in on a Ja Morant trade. Despite persistent speculation, there are no talks between the Pelicans and the Memphis Grizzlies regarding the dynamic point guard, according to sources close to the situation.
For Atlanta Hawks fans, that’s music to their ears.
Here’s why: the Hawks own the Pelicans’ 2026 first-round pick thanks to a draft-night deal back in 2025. And with every Pelicans loss, Atlanta inches closer to a potential franchise-altering selection in what’s shaping up to be a promising draft class. The worse New Orleans finishes, the better that pick becomes - and so far, the Pelicans have done little to suggest they’re turning things around anytime soon.
At 12-36, New Orleans is sitting near the bottom of the Western Conference standings. Only the Wizards and Pacers have managed to rack up more losses. That puts the Pelicans in prime lottery position - third-best odds as of now - and gives Atlanta real hope of landing a top-tier prospect this summer.
Now, Ja Morant’s name being floated in trade rumors isn’t surprising. Once one of the league’s most electrifying young stars, Morant has seen his stock drop in recent seasons.
Injuries have slowed him down, and questions about his defensive effort haven’t helped his case either. It’s a similar story to what Atlanta experienced with Trae Young.
Both guards were once viewed as offensive engines capable of carrying a team - and both have struggled to maintain that level of impact as the years have gone on.
When the Hawks moved on from Young for a surprisingly modest return, it signaled a shift in how teams are valuing high-usage, low-defense point guards. Morant, despite his undeniable talent, now finds himself in a similar spot - still capable of big nights, but with a price tag that’s likely lower than it’s ever been.
Given that context, it would’ve made some sense for the Pelicans to at least explore a deal. A buy-low opportunity on a player of Morant’s caliber doesn’t come around often. And for a team that’s been stuck in basketball purgatory - never fully tanking, never fully contending - a bold move might’ve sparked something.
But New Orleans appears content with its current direction, even if that direction is a steep slide down the standings. Whether that’s due to internal belief in their young core, a desire to reset, or simply a lack of urgency, the Pelicans are standing pat. And for now, that’s a win for Atlanta.
As long as the Pelicans stay the course - and stay out of the win-now trade market - the Hawks are positioned to benefit in a big way. That 2026 pick could become the cornerstone of their next era, especially if New Orleans keeps trending downward.
The Pelicans may be staying quiet at the trade table, but the ripple effect of that silence could speak volumes in Atlanta.