As the New Orleans Pelicans navigate a challenging season, the future of Zion Williamson remains a hot topic. With a record of 15-41 and no first-round pick, the Pelicans may reconsider their strategy this summer. If they choose to explore trade options for Williamson, the Los Angeles Lakers emerge as a fascinating destination.
Lakers Governor Jeanie Buss recently hinted at uncertainty regarding LeBron James' future in LA. Should James decide to move on, the Lakers would face a significant gap at forward-a role Williamson could fill seamlessly.
With Luka Doncic now a key player for the Lakers, pairing him with Williamson could create a dynamic duo. Doncic thrives alongside high-flyers who can dominate the rim, and Williamson fits that mold perfectly.
Lakers fans already excited by Doncic’s connection with Jaxson Hayes might find themselves even more thrilled by the potential alley-oops to Williamson.
For Pelicans fans, the idea of moving on from Williamson has been simmering, especially after trading for Derik Queen during the 2025 NBA Draft. The hope was to transition to a new era, focusing on young talents like Queen. Yet, Williamson remains a central figure, impacting the development of the team's promising prospects.
If LeBron does opt for a new team, the Lakers' front office, led by Rob Pelinka, could find Williamson an enticing addition. At 25, Williamson is in his prime and playing some of the healthiest basketball of his career, appearing in 30 consecutive games and averaging 21.6 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists.
With the Lakers projected to have significant cap space, they could facilitate a trade without the need to match salaries. For the Pelicans, the goal would be to re-enter the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft. A trade involving the Lakers' 2026 first-round pick and a player like Dalton Knecht, who could address New Orleans' floor-spacing issues, might be on the table.
Trading Williamson to the Lakers could achieve multiple objectives for the Pelicans: resolving their three-point shooting struggles, acquiring a valuable draft pick, and marking the end of the Zion era. Ultimately, the decision hinges on LeBron James and his plans for the upcoming free agency.