What's Happening?
The New Orleans Pelicans are reportedly not actively seeking trade offers for their forwards Trey Murphy III and Herb Jones, despite interest from other teams. According to NBA insiders Marc Stein and Jake Fischer, the Pelicans are open to listening to offers but
have turned down all proposals so far. The Boston Celtics have shown interest in Murphy, but no deal has materialized. The Pelicans had considered moving into the top 10 of the 2026 NBA draft but were unwilling to trade Murphy or Jones without receiving significant value in return. The team has set a high price for Murphy, likening it to a 'Desmond Bane-type offer,' which involved multiple first-round picks and a player with a substantial contract. Both Murphy and Jones are under team control for several more seasons, with Murphy not becoming a free agent until 2029 and Jones having a player option through 2030.
Why It's Important?
The Pelicans' decision to set a high trade value for Murphy and Jones reflects their strategic approach to team building. By retaining these players, the Pelicans aim to maintain a strong foundation and avoid the risks associated with trading for draft picks, which have become more uncertain due to recent NBA lottery reforms. These reforms have increased the value of draft capital, making teams more cautious about trading away picks. The Pelicans' stance suggests a focus on stability and long-term planning, prioritizing established talent over potential future assets. This approach could impact the team's competitiveness in the coming seasons and influence how other NBA teams negotiate trades.
What's Next?
As the NBA free agency period approaches, the Pelicans may continue to receive trade inquiries for Murphy and Jones. However, given their high asking price, it is unlikely that a trade will occur unless a team is willing to meet their demands. The Pelicans will likely focus on developing their current roster and exploring other opportunities to strengthen their team through free agency or smaller trades. The team's strategy will be closely watched by other NBA franchises, as it could set a precedent for how teams value young talent and draft picks in the current market.
