The Pelicans may not be done adjusting their roster.
New Orleans is “monitoring” a potential deal for Wizards star Bradley Beal, according to a report from The Athletic, which cites unidentified league sources.
The Pelicans reportedly agreed to one of the biggest trades in NBA history last weekend when they sent star Anthony Davis to the Lakers in exchange for Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball and three first-round picks, including the No. 4 selection in 2019.
New Orleans could look to flip that pick in a move for Beal, or another player, The Athletic's report says. The Wizards, however, are not expected to consider trading Beal “unless offers are overwhelming,” according to a report from the Ringer.
Beal, 25, averaged 25.6 points, 5.0 rebounds and 5.5 assists in 82 games for the Wizards last season. He shot 47.5% from the field and 35.1% from 3-point range.
The two-time All-Star, who has spent his entire career in Washington, has two seasons remaining on the five-year, $128 million extension he signed in July 2016.
“I hate change. If I can retire in this jersey, I will. I’m all about loyalty,” Beal said in February, via NBC Sports Washington. “Granted, it goes both ways. They can say they won’t trade you and (then they do). It’s a business at the end of the day. But believe me... my parents (raised) me on loyalty and just constantly even keel no matter what. Tough time last not always, but tough people do.”
The Pelicans also hold the top pick in Thursday’s draft and are widely expected to take former Duke star Zion Williamson.
New Orleans finished 2018-19 with a 33-49 record and missed the playoffs for the third time in four seasons.
