New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson has surfaced in NBA trade rumors heading into the 2023 NBA Draft. The buzz gained even more steam after New Orleans parted ways with one of his close friends on the staff.
Williamson, entering his age-23 season, has experienced a myriad of issues since entering the league. One of the highest-paid NBA players has played in 114 total games across four seasons with his durability and conditioning emerging as recurring problems.
Related: NBA reporter suggests Zion Williamson’s trade value has dropped
In light of Williamson’s recent off-court headlines, rumors emerged that the All-Star forward could be traded in June. New Orleans wants to move up in the NBA Draft and Williamson is viewed as their top trade asset. However, it appears a deal won’t be happening.
- Zion Williamson stats (career): 25.8 PPG, 7 RPG, 3.6 APG, 60.5 FG%, .187 WS/48
During an appearance on The Lowe Post podcast, NBA insider Jonathan Givony shared that the Pelicans have no intention of trading Williamson for one of the top picks on draft night.
“I’ve been told New Orleans is not trading Zion and no interest in trading Brandon Ingram. I would be very surprised if anything ended up happening there at two or three.
Jonatha Givony on rumors of New Orleans Pelicans trading Zion Williamson for draft picks
When Williamson left the court in his final regular-season game with the Pelicans last season, New Orleans held a 23-14 record. The team looked like a championship contender before his season-ending injury, prompting confidence New Orleans could make a playoff run when he returned to the lineup.
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However, Williamson never returned from the hamstring injury and the Pelicans’ hopes for a playoff run evaporated. While a team like the Portland Trail Blazers would likely have significant interest in pairing Williamson with Damian Lillard, it appears as if New Orleans isn’t going to divide its core roster.