Tampa, FL – The New Orleans Pelicans have traded CJ McCollum, Kelly Olynyk, and a future second-round pick to the Washington Wizards for Jordan Poole, Saddiq Bey, and the No. 40 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Here’s a breakdown of the trade’s impact for both teams.
Washington Wizards: B+
The Washington Wizards seem to have made a smart move with this trade, as it allows them to clear some of their books while bringing in a veteran like CJ McCollum. The Wizards took on Poole and Bey in previous seasons, but now they’ve decided to move on from Poole, who has failed to live up to expectations after his trade from the Golden State Warriors.
While this move may not be flashy, it sets Washington up for roughly $100 million in cap space by 2026, allowing them to sign players who fit their timeline or rent the cap space out to other teams.
McCollum will be a good influence on the young players, helping them develop, while the Wizards continue to rebuild. All in all, this is a well-timed, financially savvy trade for Washington.
New Orleans Pelicans: C-
The New Orleans Pelicans made this trade with two main motivations. First, they needed to create some financial wiggle room. By trading McCollum and Olynyk, who were each making more money, the Pelicans now have $5 million in savings this season. This flexibility allows them to potentially sign a free agent or make other roster improvements.
Second, the Pelicans are leaning into a younger team. With players like Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and now Poole and Bey, the team’s average age has dropped.
However, Poole’s lack of playmaking and poor defense raises concerns, as the Pelicans are already thin on playmakers. Zion remains a key focus, but his health is always a question.
Despite the cap flexibility and youth movement, the Pelicans still face challenges in addressing the lack of a floor general and balancing offensive firepower with team defense. Poole and Murray’s contracts for 2026-27 could hinder the team’s ability to make the moves they need to contend.
Final Verdict:
- Washington Wizards: B+ – Cleared space, added leadership, and set themselves up for future success.
- New Orleans Pelicans: C- – Gained flexibility but lack a clear plan for the roster, and Poole may not solve the team’s playmaking issues.
