New Orleans enters 2025-26 with Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III and Herbert Jones healthy and ready to anchor a potent Pelicans core. The addition of Jordan Poole and Saddiq Bey adds burst and shooting, while Kevon Looney brings in-the-paint defense and rebounding. Draft picks Yves Missi and Derik Queen offer upside, and Jose Alvarado provides energy off the bench. If the health trend holds, New Orleans can again contend for a playoff spot in a deep West.

But health remains the variable. An Opening Night absence for Dejounte Murray and a tough early schedule could delay chemistry-building and push the team into a rugged early patch. If the roster stays cohesive and Poole/Bey translate into efficient offense, the Pelicans could reclaim momentum in November and push for a late-season run, despite the absence of a 2026 first-round pick complicating long-term assets.

The Washington Wizards are making significant moves this offseason, trading Jordan Poole and Saddiq Bey to the New Orleans Pelicans for CJ McCollum and Kelly Olynyk. This swap not only reshapes the roster but also provides the Wizards with financial flexibility for the future.

Poole was the leading scorer for a team that underperformed last season, which makes his departure critical for both teams. While Poole's scoring was vital, the Wizards are focused on long-term growth, and the addition of McCollum, a seasoned veteran, aims to mentor younger players like Bilal Coulibaly and Alex Sarr.

Olynyk's shorter contract gives the Wizards more cap space flexibility moving forward, allowing them to potentially make more impactful moves next offseason. This trade signals a continued commitment from Washington to rebuild rather than pursue immediate playoff contention.

The New Orleans Pelicans and Washington Wizards have struck a significant trade, with the Pelicans acquiring Jordan Poole, Saddiq Bey, and the No. 40 pick. In exchange, they send CJ McCollum, Kelly Olynyk, and a future second-round pick to the Wizards. This trade aims to reinvigorate the Pelicans' roster after a lackluster season.

Poole, who averaged 20.5 points per game last season, adds offensive firepower alongside Zion Williamson. His shooting ability combined with his championship experience could potentially elevate New Orleans' performance. The inclusion of Bey also enhances their depth. For the Wizards, acquiring McCollum seems to be a strategic move, possibly paving the way for a future deal. With veterans like Khris Middleton and Marcus Smart, this trade could reshape the Wizards' outlook as they seek to build for the future.

In a surprising NBA trade, CJ McCollum has been moved from the New Orleans Pelicans to the Washington Wizards, marking a significant shift for both teams. The deal involves McCollum, alongside Kelly Olynyk and a future second-round draft pick, with the Pelicans acquiring Jordan Poole, Saddiq Bey, and the 40th pick in the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft. McCollum, who averaged 21.1 points, 4.1 assists, and 3.8 rebounds last season, played a pivotal role in New Orleans but was deemed expendable as the franchise shifts its focus.

While McCollum brings veteran experience to the Wizards, his trade raises questions about Washington's strategy moving forward, especially after their disappointing season. The trade has provoked a mixed reaction from fans and analysts who are puzzled over the potential benefits for each team. Some see McCollum as a key player who could mentor a young talent, while others criticize the trade as a move lacking clarity and purpose.

The New Orleans Pelicans have completed a trade sending CJ McCollum and Kelly Olynyk to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Jordan Poole, Saddiq Bey, and the No. 40 overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft. This move comes as part of a broader strategy by Pelicans executive Joe Dumars to retool the franchise by acquiring younger talent.

Poole, who previously showcased his scoring ability with the Golden State Warriors, averaged over 20 points last season with Washington. Meanwhile, Bey’s return from injury makes this trade a potential boon for New Orleans, aligning their roster with younger players. The Wizards, on the other hand, are focusing on financial flexibility and fostering their young core by adding established veterans like McCollum.