In a bold move, the New Orleans Pelicans have agreed to send veteran guard CJ McCollum and stretch big man Kelly Olynyk to the Washington Wizards, in return for young scorer Jordan Poole, versatile forward Saddiq Bey, and this year’s No. 40 draft pick.

Jordan Poole

Jordan Poole comes to New Orleans after averaging a career-high 20.5 PPG before injuries derailed his season. On a fresh team, he’ll have an opportunity to regain his rhythm and benefit from the gravity of All-Star Forward Zion Williamson, and fringe All-Star Trey Murphy III.

Saddiq Bey

Saddiq Bey adds a 3&D forward with shooting range and defensive versatility—an ideal fit for a system emphasizing spacing and athleticism. Bey is set to return from a torn ACL he sustained against the Pelicans during the 23-24 season. Bey hasn't played less than 63 games a season his entire career, with that 63-game year being the one he sustained his ACL injury.

No. 40 pick

The No. 40 pick offers further drafting flexibility or trade leverage.

What to Watch

• Poole’s bounce-back: Will Poole return to his scoring form with more freedom in NOLA? Jordan Poole is coming off a career year in all stats, yet it is still seen as a bounce-back year.
• Draft pick maximization: Will No. 40 be used for a rotational talent or packaged in a future deal?
• Bey’s Return To Pre-Injury Form?: Can Bey replicate the three-point shooting he showcased in the 22-23 season, where he shot 36%?

This move deepens the Pelicans’ young core around Trey Murphy III and Zion Williamson. McCollum and Olynyk were seen as potential movable assets, and this trade capitalizes on their peak value. Furthermore, this deal seems to cement the organization's desire not to continue in the same direction it was going in. It’s a new dawn and a new day in New Orleans.