Top star was a standout at Duke, and when the New Orleans Pelicans selected him with the first overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, expectations were sky-high. He was expected to be a game-changer for the NBA, a dominant force with a unique skill set. However, since entering the league, he has been plagued by injuries, preventing him from living up to his potential and leading to significant disappointment.
As a result, trade rumors surrounding him have persisted, with speculation that the Pelicans could move on from their former No. 1 pick. Despite Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Joe Dumars denying these rumors, it’s clear that Williamson wouldn’t be considered untouchable if the franchise decides to explore trade options.
If the Pelicans do decide to pull the trigger on a trade, the Sacramento Kings might just be the team with the right offer to land the two-time NBA All-Star.
After five seasons of mediocrity, it’s becoming clear that Zion Williamson may not be the franchise cornerstone the New Orleans Pelicans hoped for. While the former Duke standout showed flashes of brilliance, his persistent availability issues have kept him from being the consistent force needed to elevate the team. With just 214 games played in a Pelicans uniform, Williamson’s inability to stay on the court has prevented him from translating his college dominance to the NBA level, ultimately leading to the conclusion that it’s time for New Orleans to move on.
Despite his struggles with injuries, Williamson has still managed to put up impressive numbers—24.7 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game—earning two All-Star Game appearances. However, the Pelicans have yet to win a playoff series during his tenure, which raises the question of whether he can truly be the focal point of a championship contender. Given his value on the market, it might be wise for New Orleans to consider a trade, and the Sacramento Kings could be the perfect trade partner.
The Pelicans already have a solid young core in Yves Missi, Herb Jones, Dejounte Murray, and Trey Murphy III, meaning the missing ingredient for their future could be a few seasoned veterans. With Zion finishing the 2024-25 season strong, the Kings could be lured into trading for him by offering two All-Star-caliber players: Domantas Sabonis and DeMar DeRozan. Both players have recently expressed uncertainty about their futures in Sacramento, which could prompt the Kings to move on and seek a fresh start.
To make the deal even more enticing, the Pelicans could include veteran CJ McCollum, a former NBA Most Improved Player who remains a capable playmaker and shooter. Adding up-and-coming guard Jordan Hawkins and a first-round draft pick could sweeten the offer, creating a win-win situation for both teams.
This trade would allow the Kings to add a star talent in Zion Williamson, who, if he can stay healthy, has the potential to elevate their roster. Meanwhile, the Pelicans would gain immediate help in Sabonis and DeRozan, along with the versatility and experience needed to compete in the playoffs.
A brand new duo for the Sacramento Kings
The Sacramento Kings were one of the most active teams at this year’s trade deadline, acquiring Zach LaVine in a deal that saw them part ways with the former face of the franchise, De’Aaron Fox. The move reunited LaVine with former Chicago Bulls teammate DeMar DeRozan, but, much like their time in Chicago, the pairing ultimately fell short. Despite high hopes, the Kings failed to make the playoffs, losing their do-or-die game against the Dallas Mavericks in the Play-In Tournament. That disappointing outcome highlighted the need for change in Sacramento, and a fresh direction could be just what the team needs.
A new star to pair with LaVine might be the answer to the Kings’ woes, especially given how neither Sabonis nor DeRozan translated into consistent winning basketball. A potential pairing of LaVine and Zion Williamson would inject a much-needed jolt of excitement into Sacramento. Both players possess exceptional athleticism, and their skill sets could create an explosive offensive duo, especially in transition. With Williamson’s powerful presence in the paint and LaVine’s perimeter scoring ability, the Kings would boast one of the most dynamic duos in the league.
Additionally, the acquisition of CJ McCollum would help address Sacramento’s point guard void after Fox’s departure. McCollum, a 12-year NBA veteran, is a proven playmaker and floor general, something the Kings desperately lacked last season. Both LaVine and DeRozan found themselves too often relying on isolation plays, which led to a predictable and ineffective offense. McCollum’s ability to create shots for others would provide the stability and playmaking Sacramento needs to succeed, allowing their dynamic scoring duo to thrive.
Together, Williamson, LaVine, and McCollum would create a new offensive identity for the Kings. The addition of these pieces could help bring a new level of excitement to Sacramento, potentially making them more competitive in the Western Conference.
A new era for the New Orleans Pelicans
While the end of the Zion Williamson era in New Orleans will be disappointing, trading him for two proven stars like Domantas Sabonis and DeMar DeRozan could be the best way for the Pelicans to pivot and maximize their assets. Both players would provide the veteran leadership and consistent production needed to complement the team’s young core of players like Herb Jones, Trey Murphy III, and Dejounte Murray. This move would give New Orleans a more balanced roster with the potential to compete in the playoffs immediately.
Domantas Sabonis, a three-time All-Star, is a highly skilled big man who continues to impress with his polished offensive game, particularly around the rim. His ability to pass the ball as a center makes him an excellent fit for New Orleans’ offense. Over the 2024-25 season, Sabonis played 70 games, averaging 19.1 points and an NBA-best 13.9 rebounds per game, marking his third consecutive season leading the league in rebounds. His durability and consistency would be a major upgrade in the Pelicans’ frontcourt, offering them a reliable anchor in the paint.
DeMar DeRozan, a 16-year veteran, continues to be one of the league’s best scorers, averaging 22.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 4.4 assists last season. At 35 years old, DeRozan’s game has not shown significant signs of decline, and his mid-range shooting remains among the best in the NBA. His scoring ability would be a welcomed addition to the Pelicans’ offense, providing them with a go-to option when they need to generate buckets in clutch moments.
In addition to these two stars, the prospect of pairing them with New Orleans’ young talents such as Murphy and Murray is an exciting one. Though Murray is recovering from a torn Achilles tendon, his return could make the team even more formidable, especially with the added scoring and leadership from DeRozan and Sabonis. Together, the mix of veteran stability and youthful potential could elevate the Pelicans into serious playoff contention.
This trade could provide New Orleans with the perfect balance of scoring, playmaking, and rebounding while strengthening their leadership on the court. It’s a win-win scenario for both teams, with the Pelicans getting proven stars to complement their young core, and Sacramento bringing in a fresh start with Zion Williamson to team up with LaVine.