The New Orleans Pelicans are in the worst possible situation this season. They currently have the worst record in the NBA (3-19) and show no signs of life.
Given the struggles they’re currently going through, it seems that the Pelicans organization is prepared to rebuild their team. However, it’s easier said than done, given the circumstances.

While they do have assets to trade, none are as valuable as they once were, reducing their chances of securing a player who could help boost the team. With that said, the Pelicans will take any offer they can to commence their rebuild.

Pelicans are Ready to Rebuild

Since the 2019-20 season, the Pelicans were all-in on the idea of Zion Williamson leading the team to success. Williamson’s uniting with Brandon Ingram was expected to be an explosive duo in the Western Conference.

However, none of the team’s expectations were met, leading to a series of bad luck over the years. It was either Ingram or Williamson consistently on the injury list, hurting the Pelicans’ chances of contending for a title.

Fast forward to the 2025-26 season, and the Pelicans finally pulled the trigger on a rebuild by starting with Ingram’s departure. New Orleans traded the star forward to the Toronto Raptors, leaving Williamson as the only star remaining on the team.

Unfortunately, Williamson is out again, sustaining a grade 2 right hip adductor strain, making the Pelicans’ situation more difficult this season. At this point, sources suggest that New Orleans is also ready to move on from Williamson.

According to sources, the Pelicans are reportedly open to “the first decent, reasonable offer” for the star forward. However, that’s easier said than done.

NBA scouts are aware of Williamson’s injury history, which explains his low trade value. Williamson is signed to a 5-year deal worth $197.2 million with the Pelicans. He is currently playing in the third season of his contract, with a total remaining balance of $126.4 million.

Given the amount left on his contract, it’s unlikely that teams would be willing to pay that much for an injury-prone Williamson. Aside from his health issues, Williamson hasn’t necessarily shown the ability to lead his team to success in the playoffs, further diminishing his value.

Having all that in mind, while the Pelicans are ready to let go of their star forward to rebuild the team further, it still comes down to if other teams are willing to bring Williamson in.