Pelicans Trade McCollum, Poole Joins Team Ahead of Draft

NEW ORLEANS, La. — The New Orleans Pelicans made a significant move ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft, trading guard C.J. McCollum to the Washington Wizards for Jordan Poole, Saddiq Bey, and the No. 40 pick. This trade, reported by ESPN, signals a potential shift in the team’s strategy as they look to rebuild.

In exchange for McCollum and veteran Kelly Olynyk, the Pelicans acquired younger talent aimed at revitalizing their roster. Fans are now speculating if Zion Williamson will be next on the trading block, following a season plagued by injuries. Williamson, who played only 30 games last season, averaged 24.6 points, 5.3 assists, and 7.2 rebounds.

The Pelicans have a strong interest in developing a younger core, and Poole fits that vision. He has shown promise, averaging 20.5 points and 4.5 assists last season in Washington. Bringing him in to play alongside Williamson could help reshape the team’s future.

The Washington Wizards’ desire to improve their roster led them to trade Poole, aiming to boost their young players’ development and ball movement. The deal creates financial flexibility for the Wizards, who now expect to have as much as $100 million in cap space by summer 2026.

Additionally, teams like the Memphis Grizzlies and Chicago Bulls may be interested in Williamson given his explosive playing style, although his injury history raises concerns for potential suitors.

The 2025 NBA Draft is scheduled for 8 p.m. EST on Wednesday at Barclays Center, where the Pelicans and other teams will make critical decisions that could alter their season trajectories.