Morant is expected to team up with Zion! The Pelicans are negotiating multiple trade proposals while the Grizzlies demand an additional first-round pick.

As of January 26th Beijing time, NBA reporter Brandon Robinson reported that the Pelicans are actively chasing Grizzlies star Morant and have engaged in talks involving multiple trade scenarios with Memphis.

Robinson noted that this is a do-or-die bet. Should the Pelicans secure Morant to join forces with Zion, they would immediately rank among the NBA’s “most captivating teams.” However, the Pelicans’ ambitions go beyond just that; they have proposed various trade packages to see if the Grizzlies might be tempted by roster depth and veteran experience.

According to Robinson, three of the trade proposals discussed between the two sides are as follows—

1. The Pelicans would send Poole and Dejounte Murray to receive Morant and Bane from the Grizzlies;

2. The Pelicans would trade Poole and Looney in exchange for Morant;

3. The Pelicans would offer Poole, Hawkins, and Jordan to acquire Morant from Memphis.

Although New Orleans is willing to part with several capable players, the Grizzlies have remained firm, maintaining their valuation of Morant. It’s important to note that for a generational talent like Morant, straightforward “player-for-player” trades rarely meet a team’s expectations.

The latest update is that the Grizzlies insist any deal must include a first-round pick—even a protected one is acceptable. They want to secure an “insurance policy” for the franchise’s future.

However, the Pelicans are standing their ground. New Orleans refuses to add draft picks to any trade package, believing the players offered already match Morant’s worth. When the Grizzlies demanded a first-round pick as a firm condition, the Pelicans have so far responded with a “no.”

This season, Morant is averaging 19.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 8.1 assists per game and is currently recovering from injury. In the 2019 draft, Zion was the first overall pick and Morant went second. Will these former top-two picks end up playing on the same team? Let’s wait and see.