Golden State Warriors: 5 Roster-buffing trades with Pelicans

By Tony Pesta | Jan 27, 2021

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 20: Lonzo Ball #2 of the New Orleans Pelicans looks on in the second half against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on December 20, 2019 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /

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Golden State Warriors (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) /

Golden State Warriors’ trade scenarios No. 3

Lonzo Ball’s stock is at an all-time low. But, the former lottery pick still has high-potential and the Golden State Warriors could help him realize it.

The New Orleans Pelicans didn’t get Ball for nothing, he was part of the deal that saw Anthony Davis leave for LA. So, it’s hard to imagine the Pelicans would give him up for scraps only a year later – but, here we are.

It’s hard to imagine the Pelicans will have much leverage in negotiations. Even throwing in the first round pick here is generous for a prospect like Ball, but we figure it only makes sense to include a valuable pick for a 23-year-old guard.

Ball is an elite defender, there’s no debating that. And, he’s pretty good at creating plays for others. He does all of the little things that are valuable to a championship-contending team – the only problem is, he’s spent his entire career on lottery teams. Ball is averaging 12.0 points, 4.7 assists and 3.8 rebounds in 30 minutes of playing time.

The Warriors would get the most out of Ball’s playmaking and defensive capabilities. He would thrive next to Curry and offer an interesting dynamic where Curry isn’t the primary playmaker anymore. This is a deal the Dubs should absolutely consider.

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