Pelicans Double Down on Core: Zion, Murphy Untouchable

The New Orleans Pelicans are sticking to their guns. As the NBA trade season heats up, the organization made its stance clear: Zion Williamson and Trey Murphy III are not going anywhere. Sources around the league confirm the Pelicans are unwilling to move their foundational talents, signalling a firm belief in their current young core, even as the team struggles with a 8-31 record, according to Basketball Insiders.

This commitment defies the usual urges for a roster overhaul when a team performs poorly. Instead of selling off assets, New Orleans plans to build around these key players.

Untouchable: Zion and Trey

Zion Williamson, the former No. 1 pick, remains the face of the franchise. Rival teams called, they always do. But New Orleans shut down any substantive trade discussions for Zion. He signed a five-year max extension that began this season; that contract runs through 2028. Williamson’s health has been a talking point, but when he plays, he delivers All-NBA level production.

Trey Murphy III is another core piece. Drafted 17th in 2021, he’s grown into a valuable 3-and-D wing. Teams tried to pry him away. New Orleans sees him as “close to untouchable.” Murphy’s rookie deal is still active, and he’s eligible for an extension, which makes his long-term value even greater.

David Griffin, the Pelicans’ Executive VP of Basketball Operations, consistently frames Zion as a long-term star. He doesn’t discuss Zion as a trade chip. Head Coach Willie Green called Trey Murphy “a huge part of what we’re building.” Green added Zion is “the engine” when healthy, highlighting the staff’s dedication to his success.

“Trey Murphy III is one of the league’s most efficient two-way forwards, averaging over 21 points and six rebounds with elite shooting splits this season. That output helped generate trade interest in past off-seasons, but New Orleans isn’t entertaining serious deals now.” — Basketball Insiders

Building Around, Not Blowing Up

So, if not Zion or Murphy, what are the Pelicans doing? They’re focusing on complementary moves. They explore trades involving non-core players and draft picks. New Orleans holds a valuable cache of future first-round picks. Many of these came from the Lakers and Bucks in past Anthony Davis and Jrue Holiday deals.

The team is also evaluating how Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum fit with Zion and the young wings. The goal isn’t a tear-down. It’s about preserving their young foundation. And using their draft capital as primary trade currency, not their top talent.

And it’s not just Zion and Murphy. Other young talents are staying put. Herb Jones, an elite perimeter defender, recently signed an extension. Rookies Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears are also part of the long-term plan, showing promise. Dyson Daniels adds defensive and playmaking depth too. This group, along with Zion and Murphy, forms the bedrock. They’re not for sale.

Continuity Over Reset

The Pelicans’ poor record this season might suggest a different approach. Many teams would blow it up. But New Orleans believes in this group’s growth. They prioritize player development and chemistry. The organization wants continuity to pay off.

Zion himself wants to win in New Orleans. Murphy speaks of developing with this group. Their public comments align with the team’s internal strategy. The Pelicans aren’t shopping these guys. They don’t want to move them.

The message is clear. Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III, and their top young core are staying. New Orleans will look to adjust the roster around them. Any major trade will involve draft assets and secondary players. The Pelicans are committed to their vision, not a quick reset.