New Orleans Pelicans Open to Roster Overhaul, Including Zion Williamson

The New Orleans Pelicans are reportedly exploring the trade market for their entire roster, including star forward Zion Williamson. This development comes on the heels of a disappointing 21-61 season, marking the franchise’s worst finish since the 2004-05 campaign. The team’s front office, under new leadership, is considering a complete roster overhaul to rebuild for the future.

A New Direction for the Pelicans

In April 2025, the Pelicans hired Troy Weaver as Senior Vice President under President of Basketball Operations Joe Dumars. Weaver, previously the general manager of the Detroit Pistons, is now tasked with reshaping the team’s roster. The Pelicans’ front office is reportedly open to trade offers for most players, with the exception of Herb Jones, Yves Missi, and Trey Murphy III. This signals a potential shift towards a youth-focused rebuild.

Zion Williamson’s Uncertain Future

Zion Williamson, the former No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, has been a central figure in trade discussions. Despite flashes of brilliance, Williamson’s career has been marred by injuries, limiting his availability. He appeared in only 30 games during the 2024-25 season due to a back injury. Additionally, a recent lawsuit alleging serious misconduct has further complicated his situation. Williamson has strongly denied the allegations, calling them false and financially motivated.

Despite these challenges, Williamson remains a highly productive player when healthy. This season, he averaged 24.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game. His potential availability has attracted interest from several teams seeking to bolster their rosters.

Potential Trade Destinations

Several NBA teams are reportedly interested in acquiring Zion Williamson. The Detroit Pistons, for instance, have been mentioned as a potential landing spot. The Pistons are in the midst of a resurgence and could benefit from adding a talent like Williamson to their lineup. Other teams, such as the Chicago Bulls, have also been linked to trade rumors involving the Pelicans’ star.

Broader Implications for the NBA

The Pelicans’ willingness to explore trades for their entire roster reflects a broader trend in the NBA. With several teams facing challenges and seeking to retool, the 2025 offseason is shaping up to be one of the most active in recent memory. Superstars like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kevin Durant, and Joel Embiid are also reportedly available, setting the stage for a potentially transformative period in the league.

Conclusion

As the Pelicans embark on this new chapter, the future of Zion Williamson remains uncertain. While the team is open to trade discussions, Williamson’s talent and potential make him a valuable asset. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the direction the Pelicans will take and whether Williamson will be part of that future.