NBA Trades: 7 center trade targets the Pelicans must chase to avoid disaster
By Cal Durrett
2) Wendel Carter Jr.
Orlando Magic starting center Wendell Carter Jr. is one of the more underrated big men in the NBA given his ability to stretch the floor, play defense, and score in the paint. In 2023-24, Carter Jr. averaged a solid 11 points while shooting 52.5% from the field and 37.4% from three on 3.1 attempts, as well as 6.9 rebounds in just 25.6 minutes.
Those skills and that production make him a terrific trade target for New Orleans and it would be wise to try to trade for him while he is still relatively under the radar. Although the Magic may be less than interested in trading their starting five ahead of the season, there is a possibility of a three-team trade in which the Pelicans could trade one of their three 2025 first-round picks to another team.
The Portland Trail Blazers may be an intriguing third team, with Anfernee Simons being a perfect fit for the Magic, with the Pelicans possibly sending them a first as a part of a deal that might net them Carter Jr. That would be a nice get for New Orleans, with Carter Jr. being a nice fit for their projected starting lineup.
Murray, Trey Jones III, Ingram, Zion, and Carter Jr. would have the chance to be a good defensive lineup due to their length and size, with enough shooting around their best players to maximize their talent.