The New Orleans Pelicans snapped an 11-game losing streak on Friday night, defeating the Washington Wizards 132-120. Leading the Pels to victory was veteran guard CJ McCollum, who tied his career-high with a 50-point outburst. With one performance, McCollum showcased his immense scoring ability and highlighted why contending teams might find the veteran guard an attractive trade target ahead of the deadline.
A Scorer with Proven Credentials
McCollum’s 50-point game was a reminder of his elite ability to score the basketball. After shooting 18-for-27 from the field, including an incredible 10-for-16 from beyond the arc, the 33-year-old affectionately called “grandpa” by his teammates, demonstrated he still can take over games. It was his first 50-point game since his time with the Portland Trail Blazers in 2018, but CJ has been one of the NBA’s most consistent bucket-getters for years.
Over 22 games this season, McCollum has averaged 22.7 points, 4.0 assists, and 3.8 rebounds while shooting 45.9% from the field. Despite missing 13 games earlier this season due to an adductor strain, he’s been the stabilizing force in an otherwise turbulent Pelicans season.
That’s the role McCollum has been assigned ever since the Pelicans traded for him at the deadline during the 2021-22 season. CJ provides scoring and elite shooting on the court (21.3 points, 40.2 3P% in 189 games) while setting an example as a professional in the locker room and practices.
The question is do the Pelicans, facing yet another rebuild, still need his services?
The Contract Conundrum
McCollum’s current contract runs through the 2025-26 season, with a $33.3 million cap figure this season and $30.6 million next year. While the number is hefty, the structure of his deal makes him a reasonable option for teams looking for a win-now player. His value as a reliable scorer and leader could outweigh age and financial concerns for the right suitor.
According to recent reports, the Pelicans are open to exploring McCollum’s trade value. While there is no immediate urgency to move him, his contract, combined with the team’s disastrous season, makes him a logical trade candidate.
Shooting is at a premium in this league and CJ McCollum is one of the very best long-distance threats in the NBA. Since the start of the 2022-23 season, McCollum ranks 10th in made three-pointers with 518 and third among those players in three-point percentage (.403), trailing Golden State sharpshooters Stephen Curry (.416) and Buddy Hield (.404).
A Team in Flux
The Pelicans’ struggles this season have been well-documented. The story begins with injuries to key players like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, which sent the team to the bottom of the standings. With a record of 6-29, the front office has to do something to change the franchise’s direction.
Trading McCollum would signal the end of the “Big 3” experiment with Williamson and Brandon Ingram. While Zion is expected to remain a cornerstone, the futures of McCollum and Ingram are less certain. Moving McCollum would free up cap space and potentially bring in a rising young player or draft capital to rebuild around Zion and the team’s homegrown trio of Trey Murphy, Herb Jones, and Yves Missi.
Potential Trade Destinations
What are the teams that could be potential trade partners to acquire CJ McCollum:
- Denver Nuggets: Pairing McCollum with Nikola Jokić could provide the former champions with much-needed shooting, depth, and a secondary ball-handler.
- Minnesota Timberwolves: McCollum’s presence would ease the offensive load on Anthony Edwards and add playoff experience to an underachieving team that considers itself a contender in the West.
- Houston Rockets: The Rockets could benefit from McCollum’s leadership to guide rising stars like Jalen Green and Alperen Şengün.
- Philadelphia 76ers: McCollum could provide the scoring and perimeter shooting the Sixers need alongside Joel Embiid. Philly is another team that has been hurt by injuries and could use veteran depth.
What Could the Pelicans Get in Return?
The market for McCollum will be good, but not great. New Orleans can expect a mix of young players, draft picks, or salary relief in return for CJ. While teams may hesitate due to his age and contract, his recent performances suggest he can still be a difference-maker for a playoff contender. The Pelicans could have to sweeten the deal, but it may be best for both sides to separate sooner rather than later.
The Road Ahead
While McCollum has expressed his commitment to winning in New Orleans, and there’s no reason to doubt it, the reality of the Pelicans’ situation may dictate otherwise. If the team continues to lose like it has, a trade could be inevitable. For McCollum, it would offer a chance to compete for a championship. Following Friday’s win, he acknowledged that the window for winning is narrow and that he places a premium on competing at the highest level.
For now, McCollum’s focus remains on helping the Pelicans win. Whether that means continuing his journey in New Orleans or taking his talents elsewhere, his performance against the Wizards serves as a reminder to New Orleans and a message to the league of his enduring skill and professionalism. Any team would be glad to have a player like CJ McCollum.
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