Welcome, Hoops Heads! Here's the latest in NBA trade rumors.
NBA Trade Rumors: Zion Williamson wants off the New Orleans Pelicans
According to ESPN's Stephen A. Smith, New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson wants to play elsewhere.
That potential development adds an interesting layer to the upcoming NBA trade deadline where the Pelicans are already expected to trade star Brandon Ingram. Not only that, but they have the third-worst record in the NBA and have a chance to reset their franchise by landing a high lottery pick in the 2025 NBA draft.
While the Pelicans wouldn't necessarily have to move Zion to secure a high lottery pick, given that he will likely be on a minutes restriction and rest during the second game of back-to-back games. If Smith's reporting is true, then they may be more inclined to shop Zion around to see if there are any takers in potential deals.
With him back in the lineup after missing extended time, he has a chance to raise his trade value. However, there may not be enough time between now and the deadline to raise it enough for the Pelicans to trade him.
NBA Trade Rumors: The New York Knicks and Los Angeles Lakers are both interested in Jonas Valanciunas.
Veteran big man Jonas Valanciunas is one of the most available names in the trade market. Particularly with the Washington Wizards being expected to trade him to the highest bidder before February 6th to a team in need of big-man help.
Now, we have an idea of what the asking price will be for Valanciunas in a potential trade with the Wizards. They are reportedly seeking two second-round picks for him. Not only that, but the New York Knicks have been linked to Valanciunas. That makes sense with them in need of frontcourt depth with starting center Mitchell Robinson yet to make his season debut.
New York isn't alone in their need for depth up front, with the Los Angeles Lakers also interested in acquiring him. With at least two teams interested in Valanciunas, the Wizards should have no problem getting their asking price.
NBA Trade Rumors: Will the New York trade Mitchell Robinson?
Writing of Mitchell Robinson, he has missed the Knicks' first 40 games of the season. With no season debut date in sight, it has raised questions about whether he will be traded. Especially with them linked to Valanciunas.
He would be cheaper and more reliable health-wise than Robinson. Robinson is a better player, but his unreliability has likely hurt his value. As a result, they could either move him to another team and get back a more reliable rotation player and maybe a pick. Or, the Knicks could actually move him in a deal with Washington for Valanciunas.
The Wizards don't necessarily need him, but they can rehab both him and his trade value, with the goal being to try and move him later for a first-round pick. It will definitely be an interesting situation to watch.