The Pelicans make big moves to improve their roster for the future. They move off of Brandon Ingram because of the awkward coexistence of Zion and Ingram due to spacing. Instead they obtain Mikal Bridges from Brooklyn who is a stellar shooter from deep along with Lonnie Walker who is shooting a high percentage on pull-ups from beyond the arc this season. They also obtain Tyus Jones and Daniel Gafford from Washington in exchange for Larry Nance Jr., Dyson, and picks. Tyus is also shooting a high percentage on bis 3 point attempts. Having Tyus would help fix offensive struggles and adds a real point guard to the team. Tyus is also an above average defender this season. The Pelicans upgrade from Larry Nance Jr. to Daniel Gafford. Gafford might come off the bench or he might start but either way he will have significant minutes due to Coach Willie Green’s tendency to run small ball lineups. Gafford adds much needed rim protection as well as a real back up center to take loads off of Jonas. The Pelicans move off of Dyson because of his lack of offense but the Wizards would be eager to try and develop the defensive stud. Trey Murphy might also be needed in this deal if the Nets or Wizards decline. With a cheap contract like Trey Murphy III he could easily be traded if the draft capital wasn’t enough. The Nets move off of Bridges to gain a real star in Brandon Ingram. Bridges doesn’t seem to have the ability to take the next jump and become a true star and upgrading to Ingram while gaining the Pelicans first round pick next draft and another potential first is definitely worth it. The Wizards move off Daniel Gafford and Tyus Jones’ expiring deal and gain two unprotected firsts and former lottery pick Dyson Daniels.

Pelicans new roster: Pg: Tyus, Jose, Hawkins Sg: CJ, Naji, Matt Sf: Mikal, Herb, Walker Pf: Zion, Trey, Robinson-Earl C: Jonas, Gafford, Zeller