NBA Trade Rumors: Pelicans eye playoff caliber stars to pair with Zion Williamson as team looks to deal Trey Murphy III

The New Orleans Pelicans are not moving on from All-Star forward Zion Williamson. Despite Williamson's struggles to stay healthy, the organization is focused on building a playoff-caliber team around him. One player they are willing to trade in pursuit of their goal is defensive stalwart Trey Murphy III.

Murphy began to tap into his offensive potential last season. During the 2024-25 NBA campaign, the 6-foot-8 forward was a key player for New Orleans. He played 53 games, averaging 21.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists on 45.4 percent shooting from the field.

With his improved performance, the organization believes he could attract significant interest in the trade market. They are reportedly willing to part with Murphy and have communicated their asking price, according to Clutchpoints' Chris Dodson.

Dodson reported that several contending teams have reached out to New Orleans, all inquiring about Murphy, who commands a high asking price. The Pelicans seek to acquire a veteran All-Star, a young prospect, and multiple first-round picks.

Given his increased role in New Orleans following their decision to trade Brandon Ingram, Murphy's value has risen.

New Orleans is determined to surround Williamson with a playoff team. Since being drafted first overall in 2019, the 6-foot-6 forward has not participated in the postseason, as injuries have hindered him from playing a full season.

He played in 70 games in 2023–2024, the most he has ever played.

The Pelicans' forward is an "abitious" target for the Warriors

One of the teams that could benefit from Murphy's services is the Golden State Warriors. According to NBA insider Kevin O'Connor, the two-way forward is an "ambitious" trade target for the Warriors.

"Yahoo! Sports' Kevin O'Connor reported, 'There are no untouchables in New Orleans.' That's a pretty wild stance for the Pelicans to take, particularly on players as productive, young and relatively cheap as Trey Murphy III. But let's run with it.

One concern for the Warriors last season was the lack of athleticism from the wing. Fortunately for the Pelicans, Murphy is a capable player who can provide that. Additionally, he is a dependable outside shooter and an astute playmaker.

"How can the Dubs get a player as good as him with their resources and salary constraints? That's the hard part. Almost any deal would have to involve Brandin Podziemski, whom Golden State was loath to move last summer."

However, the Warriors would find it challenging to trade for Murphy without sacrificing their depth. Golden State could offer a trade package including Brandin Podziemski, Moses Moody, and Buddy Hield, but that could compromise their roster depth. Furthermore, the Pelicans might request a few future draft picks in a potential trade.