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New Orleans Pelicans Expected to Revisit Trade Talks Around Key Guards This Summer 
New Orleans Pelicans logo (Image Credits: Imagn)

With nowhere near the playoff conversation, the New Orleans Pelicans are locked and loaded to make an impressive offseason push

After finishing 26–54 and falling out of the playoff picture, the franchise is expected to reassess its backcourt, with trade discussions around Jordan Poole and Dejounte Murray likely to resurface.

According to reports, New Orleans explored multiple guard-related deals at the trade deadline, including a potential move involving Ja Morant. While those talks didn’t materialize, the front office appears prepared to revisit similar scenarios this summer as part of a broader reset.

“While the deal didn’t cross the finish line, sources indicate the Pelicans will explore moving Poole again this summer and may explore moving Murray again as well,” NBA insider Scoop B reported.

Well, the discussion comes amid an interesting development given how Poole’s situation stands out. Acquired as part of a reshuffling move, the scoring guard endured an inconsistent campaign that had plenty of inefficient shooting, reduced minutes, and stretches outside the rotation. 

However, a late-season 34-point explosion against Utah may have helped restore some league-wide interest, particularly for teams seeking bench scoring.

Though Murray’s case is more complex. Injuries disrupted his season, but his two-way value and playmaking still make him an attractive asset. If New Orleans chooses to recalibrate its roster around Zion Williamson, moving one or both guards could be a strategic step toward financial flexibility and roster balance.

New Orleans Pelicans’ Injury Report Looks Bizarre Before Celtics Game

The New Orleans Pelicans and Boston Celtics will meet in a late-season clash, but the spotlight has quickly shifted to an unusually long and puzzling injury report, particularly on New Orleans’ side.

The Pelicans have listed eight players as out, leaving the rotation severely depleted. Zion Williamson sits out for knee injury management amid an uncertain future timeline, while Dejounte Murray misses the game with a hand contusion.

Key contributors like Trey Murphy III, Herb Jones, and Saddiq Bey are also unavailable, alongside multiple role players dealing with various injuries.

The sheer volume and nature of these absences raise enough concern for the side. Some are legitimate injury concerns, while others fall under rest or management, especially for a team already eliminated from playoff contention.

From a competitive standpoint, this creates a clear imbalance. Boston still has motivation, needing one more win to secure the No. 2 seed, while New Orleans appears focused on preservation and long-term planning.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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