Overview
- NBA insider Chris Haynes reports New Orleans has informed teams that Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III, Herb Jones, Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears will not be traded before the deadline.
- New Orleans sits at 8-31 and previously sent its 2026 unprotected first-round pick to Atlanta, adding context to why rival teams had been circling the roster.
- Chicago had been linked as a potential suitor, with Brett Siegel reporting Bulls personnel were scouting the Pelicans and could assemble offers built around multiple expiring contracts.
- Williamson is earning about $39.4 million this season and is under contract through 2027-28, with injuries and limited availability continuing to shape his market value.
- Interest in Murphy has been strong, but the team’s stance indicates no major sell-off is expected, even as lesser rotation moves remain possible.