12. New Orleans Pelicans
Transitioning out of the Anthony Davis era couldn’t have gone any smoother for the New Orleans Pelicans. They landed the most hyped prospect of the decade in Zion Williamson and a package of young assets from the Los Angeles Lakers that could be useful in further trades.
The Pelicans feel confident in Zion to become the superstar he was projected to be. They also feel comfortable matching a max contract offer for Brandon Ingram if the first time All-Star is able to prove his worth on the market.
Where they feel less confident is in their backcourt. Lonzo Ball hasn’t shown much improvement on offense and 30-year-old Jrue Holiday won’t be a pivotal member of their longterm future. Trading Josh Hart for the 2nd overall pick and a chance at a top tier guard is something that could interest them.
In exchange, the Warriors acquire a sound perimeter defender in Hart. He shot 34.5 percent from deep last season but is only a few steps away from being a reliable catch-and-shoot threat. Hart would likely succeed in a bench role for the Dubs.