Are The Pelicans Making Another Trade?

Pels Press • January 23, 2024

Who's In & Who's Out?: New Orleans Pelicans Trade Deadline

 

Just a few weeks before the NBA trade deadline, it was reported that the New Orleans Pelicans were listening to offers for starting small forward Herb Jones. In addition to this, it was reported that the Pelicans had interest in acquiring a defensive minded big man in the market to get their team over the top. From sellers to buyers, here’s everything you need to know about the Pelicans leading up to the February 8th deadline.


A basketball player with the number 3 on his jersey

  The Pelicans Aren’t Trading Herb Jones.

        This comes as no surprise. I would guess that New Orleans would be open to trading Jones in an insanely big blockbuster deal, but it would be absolutely redundant to trade Herb considering his team friendly contract, and although he has trade value, he is a core piece of the Pelicans’ future and has a big fan in front office member David Griffin. The only reasonable explanation as to why a report like this would even come out is because of Pelicans reserve Dyson Daniels, who has taken an unbelievable defensive leap in year two.



 Still, it would make no sense to keep Daniels over Jones, as Herb is better offensively and is a member of the starting five every game he’s available. He’s taken a big jump with his three point shooting this year, and is becoming capable of being a reliable scoring option for New Orleans, which only makes them better offensively. He’s also a fan favorite and has never expressed interest in playing anywhere but New Orleans, proving these reports incorrect. It would come as a complete surprise to me, as well as many others, if the Pelicans choose to sell at the trade deadline, and Herb Jones is one of the last people I would want/expect to see shipped out of New Orleans.


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Who Might the Pelicans Trade?



        The Pelicans view their “core” as Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, CJ McCollum, Herb Jones, and Trey Murphy. These players are almost certainly not going anywhere. While I do think the Pelicans would ship off any other player in the right deal, it’s hard for me to believe they’d just be willing to trade a guy like rookie Jordan Hawkins. So who would they be open or willing to move on from?

Jonas Valančiūnas

As reliable as the big fella has been this season, I don’t think the Pelicans front office values him defensively and would rather someone else at the starting center spot. He would likely be included in a deal for that different center.

Dyson Daniels

I don’t think the Pelicans are looking to trade Daniels, but I do think they wouldn’t necessarily hesitate to throw him in a deal if it meant they could upgrade at another position.

Naji Marshall

Similar to Daniels, I don’t think the Pelicans are actively shopping him. However, I think they would throw him in if they could get a deal done for a better player.

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Who Could the Pelicans Look to Add at the Deadline?



        Now that the easy part is out of the way, it’s time to look at some potential trade targets the Pelicans could be eyeing. It’s been no secret that the Pelicans have been looking to add some rim protection, either to their starting lineup or off the bench. While there’s been some talk about Clint Capela, Andre Drummond, and Daniel Gafford, Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen has been the top name thrown around, but who else could New Orleans go for? And could they be in the market for a guard or forward as well? Let’s break down all the trade targets I think the Pelicans should keep an eye on.


Defensive Center- Jarrett Allen


Let’s start with the obvious. Allen’s name has been associated with the Pelicans since last summer, and he fits the mold of everything the Pelicans seem to be looking for. He is a defensive guy and good rebounder on a good team. Despite their success this season, the Cavs do seem open to trading Allen, and the Pelicans have seemed to be the number one team linked to him dating back to before the draft. Allen is currently averaging 14.8 PPG, 10.2 RPG, and 1.1 BPG to go along with a steal per game. He is shooting 66.7% from the floor this season, and only tends to shoot when he needs to, as the offense is mainly run by stars Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland, as well as Evan Mobley. He is also just 25 years old, which could be a big factor dragging the Pels in. In New Orleans, Allen would almost surely be told to just keep doing what he’s doing, as he wouldn’t have to play a vital role in the offense here either. Allen would most certainly start for New Orleans, so a deal with him would no doubt include C Jonas Valanciunas and possibly someone like Dyson Daniels, and maybe even a pick as well. Although Allen isn’t as good as Valanciunas offensively and can’t space the floor, it is understandable to see why the Pelicans would have interest in a player like Allen, especially given his youth. I would probably argue that this is the number one trade target for New Orleans, so definitely something to keep an eye on in the coming weeks.


Two basketball players are playing a game of basketball on a court.

Veteran Point Guard- Tyus Jones


CJ McCollum has been very good for the Pelicans this season, even shooting a career high from deep. But he isn’t a true point guard. That’s where Tyus Jones comes in. Jones is quietly having a very nice season for a struggling Washington team, averaging over 12 PPG and 6 APG while shooting over 50% from the field and over 42% from 3. Like Allen, Jones does not play with a scorer’s mindset, and would truly be a nice piece for many contenders all over the league. Because the Wizards are so far below .500, it would make a lot of sense for them to trade the 27 year old, especially if they could get more picks and young players. Jones wouldn’t have to start for the Pelicans to be successful, but definitely could if need be. While I don’t expect the Pels to make a big push for a player like him, I would 100% be supportive of a trade for Jones if the Pelicans were able to get him at the right price.

The Big Star- Lauri Markkanen



Let’s close with the biggest long-shot. Lauri Markkanen has been incredible since being traded to the Utah Jazz a few years ago, as he’s currently averaging 24 PPG, 9 RPG, and 2 APG on nearly 50% shooting and 39% from beyond the arc. Markkanen is surely one of the most underrated players in the game today, and he would make an incredible impact to this New Orleans team. I don’t see Utah being completely unwilling to let go of Markkanen, but I don’t see the price being very low either. A deal like this would require multiple rotational players for the Pels, as well as multiple first round picks. The Pelicans trading for Markkanen would certainly surprise me, but it would also convince the fanbase that the front office is finally all in and ready to win a championship now. Adding Markkanen to this core of guys would create for one of the best lineups in the game of basketball, and it would immediately make the Pelicans a true Western Conference force.


A basketball player wearing a hornets shirt is standing on the court.

Young with Upside: Nick Richards


Now this is a name I haven’t seen brought up in many mock trades. I think Richards would be the perfect backup 5 for this Pels team, and could even be a starter if the Pelicans front office and coaching staff trusted him enough. The 4th year Charlotte Hornet is averaging 8.7 PPG on nearly 70% from the floor, and is grabbing 7.6 boards along with 1.3 blocks in his time on the floor, which has mostly come in backup minutes. Since it was reported that Charlotte would be open to trading anyone other than Lamelo Ball and Brandon Miller, Richards is definitely gettable and probably wouldn’t cost a huge amount for New Orleans either. While I don’t necessarily have him on my Pelicans radar, it’s entirely possible that the Pels would go after someone like him in Charlotte at the last minute, similarly to what they did with Josh Richardson last year, although that trade was mainly to get off of Devonte Graham’s contract.


A Big Rental- Nic Claxton


Imagine a slightly younger version of Jarrett Allen. Nets C Nic Claxton is having a nearly identical year to Allen in all but one category: blocks. While he isn’t as good offensively, averaging a few less points and shooting worse, especially from the FT line, Claxton is averaging an astonishing 2.3 BPG and would no doubt be a defensive anchor in New Orleans. While I have seen his name linked to a few New Orleans mock trades, I do not fully expect the Nets to be willing to sell Claxton, and I believe they would receive a big package for him if he is traded. I’m sure the Pelicans would be more willing to go after someone like Allen, as he’s only one year older and would probably be cheaper to obtain, but no one would be mad if the Pelicans tried Claxton instead. I could definitely see him being a key piece of the team if he ends up being traded here.


What Does It Mean?


        All of this being said, I fully expect the Pelicans, if they make any moves at the deadline (which they should), to be buyers. They should be on the phone with any and every GM around the league trying to make moves, hopefully for one or more of the guys I have listed above. Let’s see how different this Pelicans team looks come early February!

 -Drew Duvieilh  (@Drew_Duvieilh) on X

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Why Peyton "Pop" Houston Could Play a Major Role in LSU's Pursuit of Easton RoyalWhy Peyton "Pop" Houston Could Play a Major Role in LSU's Pursuit of Easton Royal

By Auston Taylor • July 8, 2026
 LSU has made it clear that five-star wide receiver Easton Royal remains one of its top priorities in the 2027 recruiting class. Although Royal is currently committed to Texas, LSU has continued to recruit him aggressively. Based on recent recruiting events and public reporting, one factor that could strengthen the Tigers' position is the presence of quarterback commit Peyton "Pop" Houston. While no outcome is guaranteed in recruiting, Houston's relationship with Royal has become one of the more intriguing storylines surrounding LSU's 2027 class. According to recruiting coverage from The Opening and reports from And The Valley Shook, Houston and Royal showcased noticeable chemistry while competing together on the national stage. Houston also drew attention by winning the event's longest throw competition with a reported 67-yard throw, further reinforcing why many evaluators consider him one of the premier quarterback prospects in the 2027 class. In my view, Houston has the potential to become much more than another highly rated offensive commitment. Elite quarterbacks often become magnets for other top recruits, and early signs suggest Houston could have that kind of influence on LSU's 2027 recruiting class. Why Houston Matters in Royal's Recruitment Quarterback and wide receiver relationships have become one of the most influential factors in modern recruiting. Elite receivers aren't simply choosing a school—they're choosing an offense, a coaching staff, and perhaps most importantly, the quarterback who will help maximize their abilities. If Royal ultimately views Houston as LSU's quarterback of the future, it gives the Tigers another compelling selling point. Rather than asking Royal to imagine what the offense could become, LSU can point to chemistry that has already been displayed during national recruiting events. That doesn't guarantee a commitment flip, but it does provide LSU with something tangible that few recruiting pitches can offer: an established connection between two elite prospects. LSU's History Shows Why This Matters LSU's greatest offensive seasons have consistently featured elite quarterbacks throwing to elite receivers. During the Tigers' historic 2019 National Championship season, Joe Burrow captured the Heisman Trophy while throwing to arguably the greatest receiving corps in college football history—Ja'Marr Chase, Justin Jefferson, and Terrace Marshall Jr. That offense rewrote NCAA record books and remains the standard for modern college football offenses. A few years later, history repeated itself. Jayden Daniels won the 2023 Heisman Trophy while benefiting from one of the nation's most explosive receiving duos in Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr. Daniels' remarkable development was certainly his own, but LSU's elite receiving talent allowed the offense to reach another level. The lesson is clear: great quarterbacks elevate receivers, but elite receivers also help quarterbacks reach championship-level production. That history gives LSU a compelling message for recruits considering Baton Rouge. Peyton "Pop" Houston's Development Houston's rise as one of Louisiana's premier quarterback prospects is backed by more than recruiting rankings. Evaluators consistently praise his arm strength, touch, ability to extend plays outside the pocket, and willingness to attack defenses vertically. His continued development at Evangel Christian Academy has made him one of the foundation pieces of LSU's 2027 recruiting class. The Bigger Picture If LSU eventually pairs Peyton Houston with Easton Royal, it would represent much more than another recruiting victory. It would signal that LSU landed a quarterback capable of attracting elite talent around him while adding a receiver willing to build alongside that vision. Programs that consistently compete for championships often see recruiting momentum build this way. Elite quarterbacks attract receivers. Elite receivers attract additional offensive talent. Once that cycle begins, recruiting classes can quickly become special. None of this guarantees that Easton Royal will flip his commitment. Texas remains in a strong position, and recruiting decisions can change for countless reasons. However, Houston's emergence gives LSU something every elite program hopes to have: a quarterback capable of becoming the centerpiece of an entire recruiting class. LSU has already witnessed what happens when championship-caliber quarterbacks are paired with elite receivers. Joe Burrow won the Heisman Trophy. Jayden Daniels won the Heisman Trophy. If Peyton "Pop" Houston eventually helps bring Easton Royal to Baton Rouge, it could become one of the defining recruiting stories of LSU's 2027 class—and perhaps the first step toward building another explosive Tiger offense.

Tight End Room Outlook: Revamped and Ready To Roll

By Kaden Arkeder • July 4, 2026
The tight end room has some fresh blood and they look poised to be more impactful heading into next season. With the new arrivals of Noah Fant and third round draft pick Oscar Delp the offense will have the ability to play more in multiple tight end sets to create mismatches for the defense. Multiple tight end sets should allow the Saints to improve the run game and conversely the play action game. Playing in tight end heavy sets was something they were unable to do more of last year due to injuries and lack of talent at the tight end position. Mainstay and the only returning starting caliber player is Juwan Johnson. Johnson had a good year last year as one of the few reliable targets in the passing game aside from Chris Olave. Johnson is looking to build on a solid year where he had 77 receptions for 889 receiving yards with 3 touchdowns. He was a security blanket when Rattler was starting and had quite a few big plays when Shough took over as the starting quarterback. With Shough coming into the season as the presumed starter I expect their connection to be even better next season. Someone hoping to have a better connection with a new QB is Noah Fant. Fant was a first round pick back in 2019 with the Broncos but has never quite lived up to his draft status. Fant will be playing on his third team in three years as he seeks to be a quality rotational piece in the offense and find stability for his career here in New Orleans. Fant should be utilized more in the passing game than in the running game but should be able to hold his own when called upon to do his part on run downs. Fant has been on a statistical decline since his time with Denver as his best receiving season came in at 68/670/4 back in 2021. Although his stats have been declining Fant still has plenty to offer with his athleticism and should produce more given a better opportunity. After Fant in the depth chart should be Oscar Delp who could be the x-factor of the tight end room after being selected in the third round of the draft this year. Delp brings a versatile option to the offense as he can lineup in various spots and handle the rigors of blocking in the run game. Delp’s calling card in college was his elite athleticism which jumps off the screen when you watch his tape. He has the ability to turn a five yard catch into an explosive play with how quickly he can get to top speed. Delp is an adequate, willing blocker where like most new tight ends in the league has room to improve in the blocking area of his game. With his versatility and athleticism I believe Delp will play a pivotal role in the offense this upcoming season. With Delp presumed to round out the depth chart at tight end the remaining tight ends will be competing for spots on the practice squad or spots on another team. This group includes Cody Hardy, Treyton Welch, Moliki Matavao, and Zaire Mitchell-Paden. We’ve seen Welch and Matavao from last season fill in admirably after some injuries but are best served as bench options at this point in time in their development. This group of roster hopefuls should hopefully provide some good competition from one another as we progress through training camp and preseason here shortly. Overall this group has a lot more promise heading into this season as it did last year. By getting younger and more athletic the tight ends will play a more prominent role in Kellen Moore’s offense. Whether it’s Juwan building on last season or Fant having a bounce back year or Delp proving to be revelation, the team is going to have plenty of options to choose from to attack the defense. Exactly what this team needed after not having enough last season.
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