The New Orleans Pelicans have entered a quiet offseason after two consecutive campaigns that fell short of the thirty-win mark. With a roster that still lacks a true starting center, the front office feels pressure to add interior size while preserving flexibility under the salary cap. The lack of aggressive moves has left fans restless, and speculation has centered on three players whose contracts and performance could be leveraged to facilitate a deal for a big man.
Jordan Hawkins, a former lottery selection, has never secured a consistent role in the Pelicans’ rotation. After spending his rookie year with the Memphis Grizzlies, he was brought to New Orleans in a trade that involved a veteran guard. Recent reports indicate that Memphis remains interested in reacquiring Hawkins, and the Pelicans have been exploring trade frameworks that would move the former lottery pick in exchange for roster and financial flexibility. While no deal has been finalized, the possibility of moving Hawkins could free up space for the team to pursue a true interior presence.
Buddy Poole is entering the upcoming season on a contract that will expire after this year, making his salary an attractive piece for a contender seeking veteran depth and relief from long-term obligations. Poole’s production this past season fell short of expectations; his scoring dipped considerably after a career-high performance with the Washington Wizards, and his shot selection and defensive play led to reduced minutes and occasional benchings. Those factors, combined with the looming contract expiration, position Poole as a potential trade asset that could bring draft capital or a target center to New Orleans.
Jaxson Jones arrived in New Orleans as a former All-NBA First Team selection and was expected to anchor the wing defense. Injuries over the past two seasons limited his availability, and his shooting efficiency has declined compared to earlier years. Although he remains on a team-friendly deal, the Pelicans could view Jones as expendable, especially with the emergence of Micah Peavy, a second-year forward who showed flashes in a significant number of games. Peavy’s development offers the Pelicans a potential internal replacement, reducing the urgency to retain Jones at the expense of other roster needs.
By moving Poole’s expiring salary and potentially pairing it with Hawkins or Jones, the Pelicans could increase the appeal to teams looking for veteran depth and salary matching. With the NBA trade deadline approaching and free agency on the horizon, New Orleans is likely to act before the market opens, aiming to enter the next season with a balanced roster and the flexibility to pursue additional free-agent signings. The front office’s strategic focus appears to be on acquiring a true starting center while maintaining the ability to add complementary pieces through the draft or free agency.
