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Just hours before the tip of the 2017 NBA All-Star Game, multiple sources indicate the New Orleans Pelicans have expressed interest in trading for DeMarcus Cousins and Paul George.
Kings have had recent discussions with New Orleans on Cousins, sources tell @TheVertical. Sac still debating Cousins' future internally.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojVerticalNBA) February 19, 2017
Pelicans have made trade inquiries on DeMarcus Cousins and Paul George, per league sources. Talks have progressed further on Cousins.
— Justin Verrier (@JustinVerrier) February 19, 2017
Now, before anyone gets unduly excited by the news, first, understand all the rumors appear to be of an exploratory variety, and second, a deal for another star is rather unlikely considering the Pelicans overall lack of appealing assets. While the team’s 2017 first-round pick is attractive, pairing it with another future first round pick as well as anyone else on the roster not named Anthony Davis is highly unlikely to be enough to bring one the biggest names in the NBA to New Orleans.
I’m told that the Kings have been willing to listen for godfather offers, which is normal. Strong belief is he is staying and re-signing.
— Aaron Bruski (@aaronbruski) February 19, 2017
Sources: Pelicans offering their 2017 first-round pick, Buddy Hield and an additional first-round pick to the Kings for DeMarcus Cousins.
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) February 19, 2017
Sources quickly shot down any Hield and pair of first rounders talk.
— Aaron Bruski (@aaronbruski) February 19, 2017
Appropriately, common sense and logic is beginning to take hold across social media, despite the fact that Davis has exhibited strong bonds across the league with stars like Cousins.
Truly like brothers. #AnthonyDavis #DeMarcusCousins pic.twitter.com/oIkd61wnEC
— Oleh Kosel (@Redhopeful) February 18, 2017
The biggest thing to gleam from this latest set of rumors is the fact that the New Orleans Pelicans are desperate to make a change with the roster now. A W/L record identical to last year is wholly unacceptable and the franchise’s trajectory needs to change immediately if everyone values their job security.
Stay tuned for further developments!
The NBA trade deadline is fast approaching. What should the New Orleans Pelicans do?
Posted by The Bird Writes on Thursday, January 12, 2017