Jose Alvarado’s Rising Trade Value Puts Pelicans in a Tough Spot
Jose Alvarado has never been the flashiest name on the New Orleans Pelicans roster, but make no mistake - his impact is undeniable. Now, that impact is drawing attention across the league.
Alvarado recently landed at No. 18 on a prominent NBA Trade Big Board, a clear signal that front offices around the league see real value in the 27-year-old guard. That ranking doesn’t just reflect his numbers - it reflects the kind of intangible energy and clutch play that coaches and executives know can swing playoff games.
The Pelicans, currently riding a four-game win streak, are trending upward. With that momentum, the idea of selling off key contributors like Trey Murphy or Herb Jones feels increasingly unlikely. This is a team that wants to win now - and Alvarado’s presence has played a role in that push.
But Alvarado’s situation is a little different, and that’s where things get complicated.
He holds a $4.5 million player option for next season, and while there’s a chance he picks it up, there’s also a very real possibility he tests the market for a bigger payday. And he’s earned the right to do so.
The problem? New Orleans already has significant money tied up in Jordan Poole and Dejounte Murray, and with the emergence of young guard Jeremiah Fears, the front office might not be in a position to offer Alvarado the kind of deal he’s looking for.
From a purely basketball standpoint, losing Alvarado would sting. He’s not just a stat line - though his 8.4 points, 2.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.0 steal per game on 43/37/81 shooting splits over 22.6 minutes are solid.
What makes him special is the way he plays the game. He’s a spark plug off the bench, a defensive pest, and a guy who sees the floor like a coach in sneakers.
James Borrego trusts him in closing time - and that trust isn’t handed out lightly.
Alvarado has a knack for hitting timely threes and injecting life into the team when they need it most. He energizes the bench, fires up the crowd, and never backs down - no matter who’s on the other side of the court. That edge, that grit, is exactly why other teams are circling.
According to the trade board, Alvarado’s value is currently pegged around second-round picks. But don’t be surprised if the Pelicans can squeeze more out of a potential deal - maybe a promising young player from a contender looking to solidify its backcourt depth. Teams like the Knicks, Magic, Clippers, Timberwolves, and Rockets are all viewed as logical landing spots.
So here’s the dilemma: Do the Pelicans hold onto a player who embodies the identity they’re trying to build, even if they risk losing him for nothing this summer? Or do they move him now, recoup assets, and trust their depth to carry the load?
There’s no easy answer. But one thing’s clear - Jose Alvarado’s name is on the radar, and the league is paying attention.