The Pelicans might be entering the summer as one of the most intriguing teams in the NBA — and not just because of what’s happening inside the building, but who they’re watching outside of it.
I’m hearing the New Orleans Pelicans are keeping close tabs on Giannis Antetokounmpo’s situation with the Milwaukee Bucks. With some potential organizational changes looming in Milwaukee following their early playoff exit and an uncertain future, New Orleans is in position to strike — and they’ve got leverage.
Don’t forget: the Pelicans own Milwaukee’s unprotected 2027 first-round pick, along with swap rights in 2026 as part of the Jrue Holiday deal. That alone makes New Orleans a natural team to monitor what’s next with the Bucks — especially if Giannis’ long-term commitment comes into question.
And now? It gets even more interesting.
Sources tell me new Pelicans President of Basketball Operations Joe Dumars will be meeting with Zion Williamson in the near future, as the franchise continues to evaluate its future. I’m told Zion could very well be on the table in a potential Giannis deal if Milwaukee chooses to explore trade options.
This isn’t just speculation. There’s been growing frustration internally between Zion and Pelicans ownership — and while Dumars will get his opportunity to sit down and get a read on Zion firsthand, I’m told that a trade involving the former No. 1 overall pick is very much on the table this offseason.
A move like that — packaging Zion for Giannis — would be one of the boldest swings in recent memory, but New Orleans has been stuck in the middle of the West for too long. And with a top-tier front office mind like Dumars now at the helm, there’s a real chance we could see the Pelicans pivot in a major way.
The message is simple: New Orleans is ready to go big-game hunting — and Giannis is on their radar.
Buckle up. It’s going to be an interesting offseason down in NOLA.
