Why They Do It:

NOLA - The Pels have one clear need: a starting center. They drafted Yves Missi in the 1st round of this year's draft but he is a raw prospect and cannot be the team's starter if they aspire to be a playoff contender. While Deandre Ayton is a risk, he has the tools to play next to Zion and has been a starter on a team that made the NBA Finals before. He's got an elite mid range shot for a big, he defends well and rebounds at a high rate. On a team like the Pels where he can be the 4th option and has playmakers in Dejounte Murray and CJ McCollum that will find him, this could be a great fit. His attitude will dictate the success of this move.

POR - The Blazers drafted Donovan Clingan with the 7th overall pick and he was one of the most pro ready prospects this year. Ayton stands in the way of his development and minutes so offloading him is a priority. This move frees up the starting role for Clingan and gives Portland two NBA vets to help mentor this younger group of players or two guys who could be flipped for picks. They also get their 2nd round pick back for 2025 which could be very valuable.

SAC - Kings fans have been crying out for their team to finally make a move. Ingram is a great offensive fit next to their core of Fox, Sabonis and Murray. He also fits the timeline and they should be able to extend him. Not having to give up any 1st round picks for a borderline All Star level talent is a win in my eyes.

10-man Rotations (Post-Trade):

NEW ORLEANS PELICANS

PG	SG	SF	PF	C
Dejounte Murray	CJ McCollum	Herb Jones	Zion Williamson	Deandre Ayton
Jose Alvarado	Jordan Hawkins	Trey Murphy	Jeremiah Robinson-Earl	Yves Missi

PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS

PG	SG	SF	PF	C
Scoot Henderson	Anfernee Simons	Deni Advija	Jerami Grant	Donovan Clingan
Dalano Banton	Shaedon Sharpe	Kevin Heurter	Harrison Barnes	Robert Williams III

SACRAMENTO KINGS

PG	SG	SF	PF	C
DeAaron Fox	Malik Monk	Brandon Ingram	Keegan Murray	Domantis Sabonis
Devin Carter	Keon Ellis	Jalen McDaniels	Trey Lyles	Alex Len