Why the Pelicans can keep Anthony Davis by trading for John Wall

Anthony Davis is the player most talked about in the NBA's trade section right now. It shouldn't be a surprise either - his hype is warranted because the decision regarding his future has the potential to change the dimensions of the NBA for years to come.

Davis is 25 years old and continues to dominate the court. His career averages are 23.9 points, 10.5 rebounds, 1.4 steals and 2.5 blocks per game, which more than prove his potential to be among the world's best. He's also about to enter the prime years of his career, so every NBA franchise would at least be thinking about how they could acquire him.

In a recent statement from the player himself, he revealed how legacy is more important to him than money. This statement was a clear indication that the New Orleans Pelicans' attempts to offer him a super-max deal will not necessarily solve his long-term problems.

Losing a player of his quality could turn out to be one of the biggest mistakes in the franchise's history, so naturally, they must think about something else to convince him into staying for the long-haul.

Why a John Wall trade could prove decisive

With that in mind, trading for Washington Wizards' point guard John Wall is one of the options they should consider right now.

Wall signed a four-year $170m contract last year, which comes into the picture next season. Still currently under his previous contract, it will take a fortune for the Pelicans to acquire his services and unite with Davis in New Orleans. Money is a huge factor in this deal, but is it not worth the risk?

Wall might not seem to be one of the league's top ten guards at present, but he is effective. His playstyle will suit that of the Pelicans, as they also like to run the push-offence. His pick-and-roll plays alongside Davis would be deadly, while it'd also allow Jrue Holiday an opportunity to play his natural game too.

Despite questions over his conditioning, injuries and consistency this season, Wall is averaging 20.7 ppg and 8.7 assists to date

Although it appears a long shot right now, this deal could help the Pelicans establish themselves as real contenders in the Western Conference. Then, who knows? They might also compete for the NBA Championship - provided they are consistent and have a reliable second unit to call upon.

With that being said, there are a lot of complexities involved in this potential trade deal. If the Pelicans let Davis go though, they'll get back some good talented youngsters and see the rebuilding process come into the picture once again.

As previously mentioned, they cannot afford to lose their franchise player. Instead, they should aim to persuade him into remaining by adding more quality options alongside him - Wall is in need of a fresh start and although expensive, this deal makes sense.