The New Orleans Pelicans are staring down a harsh reality: they’re at the bottom of the Western Conference standings, and to make matters worse, they don’t own their 2026 first-round draft pick. That’s a brutal combination-no wins, no lottery hope. But there may be a path forward, one that involves making a bold, franchise-shifting move.
The idea gaining traction? Trading Zion Williamson.
In a proposed deal with the Chicago Bulls, the Pelicans would send Williamson and Kevon Looney to the Windy City. In return, New Orleans would receive Zach Collins, Kevin Huerter, Dalen Terry, and-most importantly-a 2026 first-round pick from the Bulls.
Let’s break this down.
For the Pelicans, this is less about punting on talent and more about hitting the reset button with purpose. They can’t tank in the traditional sense-Atlanta owns their 2026 pick-but they can pivot toward a younger core and build for the future. That starts with moving on from Zion, whose time in New Orleans has been defined by flashes of dominance and stretches of uncertainty.
When Zion is on the court, he’s a force-there’s no denying that. His ability to bulldoze through defenders, finish at the rim with unmatched explosiveness, and create mismatches makes him one of the most unique offensive weapons in the league.
But the lingering concern, always, is availability. Injuries have haunted his career, and the fear of another setback is never far from the minds of fans or front offices.
That’s part of why this deal could make sense for both sides.
Chicago, stuck in the middle of the Eastern Conference pack, gets their shot at a true game-changer. Pairing Zion with the Bulls’ up-tempo style could unlock a new level for their offense.
If he stays healthy, he’s exactly the kind of player who can lift a team out of the play-in purgatory and into the postseason conversation. It’s a gamble, sure-but it’s one with potentially massive upside.
As for New Orleans, the return package offers flexibility. Zach Collins brings frontcourt depth and a bit of edge.
Kevin Huerter can shoot it from deep and space the floor. Dalen Terry is still a project, but there’s athleticism and defensive potential to work with.
And that 2026 first-round pick? It’s the real prize.
With no control over their own draft fate, grabbing a pick from a team that’s also in flux gives the Pelicans a shot at finding their next franchise cornerstone.
But perhaps the most significant ripple effect of this move would be the symbolic passing of the torch. Trading Zion would clear the runway for rookies Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears to take the reins.
It’s not just about cap space or roster turnover-it’s about identity. This would be a clear signal that the Pelicans are moving forward with a new core, one they can shape and grow around.
And with Zion’s contract off the books, New Orleans would suddenly have financial breathing room. That opens up possibilities-whether it’s adding veterans who fit the timeline of their young stars, or staying patient and letting the next chapter unfold organically.
No one’s pretending this is an easy decision. Trading a player with Zion’s talent is always a risk.
But with the current trajectory of the team, standing still might be the bigger gamble. If the Pelicans are ready to embrace a new era, this could be the first step in turning the page.