There is a lot of conjecture in the NBA trade market regarding players that the Chicago Bulls might move, but what if they instead target another superstar who might want to play for them? The Bulls may attempt to trade Zach LaVine, who is supposedly available on the trade market, for a future cornerstone who is a member of the New Orleans Pelicans.
Given Zion Williamson’s recent video in which he discussed a potential future with the Bulls, it would be interesting to examine the manner in which a trade could occur in the NBA of today. Finding a trade that would benefit both parties is difficult, but Zach LaVine may be acquired by the Miami Heat, allowing this deal to go through.
The Pelicans have started the season inconsistently, dealing with various injuries to role-players across the roster. Zion has been healthy and available, averaging 22.7 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.9 assists. Along with the fantastic performances of Brandon Ingram, the Pelicans do have a future as a contender in the NBA. But with the known fragility of Zion and the Pelicans front office dissatisfaction with him, if there was ever a time they could move him for a strong return, it’s now.
Tyler Herro was averaging 22.9 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.6 assists before an ankle injury ruled him out, but he is a few weeks away from a return. The Heat won without him in the playoffs and have a record of 7-5 since he got hurt, meaning the team could see that Herro isn’t integral to their winning habits. The Pelicans can benefit from the young star’s proven scoring ability by creating an offensive trio of Herro, CJ McCollum, and Brandon Ingram.
Duncan Robinson adds a floor-spacing option on a lethal outside shooting team, who’ll have two combo guards running the show. Herro has shown flashes of defensive improvement with his size and could develop that skill into becoming a primary option for the Pelicans. Along with the picks, it keeps the Pelicans’ future bright, especially with strong defenders across the roster such as Trey Murphy III, Dyson Daniels, and Herb Jones.