NBA Trades: Kings and Pelicans land stars in spicy proposed deal with Hawks 

NBA Trades: Would the Pelicans accept this deal?

For New Orleans, this is a deal that could create stronger defensive personnel around Zion, with a high-powered defense and backcourt to lean on. A CJ McCollum and Dejounte Murray backcourt is capable of taking over on nights Zion is unavailable to play or inactive. Additionally, adding Murray to Herb Jones and Trey Murphy III gives New Orleans a swarming, versatile, defensively driven perimeter defense. Murray would be an upgrade over Brandon Ingram at this moment in time.

This season, Ingram averaged 21 points, five rebounds, and six assists across 64 games played. Ingram finished the season shooting just under 50% from the field, over 35% from three, and 80% from the free throw line. Murray had a career-best season, averaging just 23 points, five rebounds, and six assists across 78 games. Murray made small improvements is his efficiency, shooting 46% from the field, 36% from three, and 79% from the free throw line. While a lateral move, it's an upgrade.

Murray's playmaking and defense compliment New Orleans' team better than Ingram, who operates heavily in the mid-range while being an average defender. With Murray, there would be increased spacing and playmaking opportunities, so he could fill the void in Zion's absences. Most importantly, Murray is under contract for the next few seasons, while Ingram will be an upcoming free agent.