u/BasketballAnimeBoi21

Took some feedback on my last post and adjusted a deal that would send Zion to Charlotte, thanks to a user who actually offered a trade proposal.

Hornets get Zion, and might be potentially able to still extend Coby White for 4/100m this offseason.

Pelicans get two expiring deals in Bridges and Williams, but most importantly they get the 18th pick, a future 2nd, and out of the Zion contract a year early.

Thoughts?

This trade is simple for New Orleans - you get out of the Zion deal a year early for two smaller, expiring deals. Bridges and/or Williams could be rotational pieces for the Pelicans or get shipped, but it's mainly the saved money from the deal.

For Charlotte, they take a stab at Zion and his semi-guaranteed contract while Miller and Kon are still on rookie-scale deals. If he doesn't stay healthy, they can cut him in 2027 as it's partially guaranteed, but if he does, he could be the piece that pushes them into legit playoff contention and they can work on an extension w/ his bird rights.

No picks are involved because Zion is probably still seen as a risky asset due to his health, but if you want to throw in a protected 1st or some seconds, go right ahead.