New Orleans Pelicans: Examining the trade market for Anthony Davis

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 23: Anthony Davis #23 of the New Orleans Pelicans reacts during a game against Houston Rockets at the Smoothie King Center on February 23, 2017 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 23: Anthony Davis #23 of the New Orleans Pelicans reacts during a game against Houston Rockets at the Smoothie King Center on February 23, 2017 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
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LAS VEGAS, NV – JULY 09: Jayson Tatum
LAS VEGAS, NV – JULY 09: Jayson Tatum

About Boston

Jayson Tatum or Jaylen Brown – whoever showed the most promise this season – would be the key part of the trade, along with the Lakers/Kings pick. If it ends up being the Lakers pick, meaning it’s two through five in what is currently seen as a five player draft, it’s easier to see a deal happening.

If the Lakers pick doesn’t convey, things become more complicated. The Pelicans would have to read the tea leaves on just how much the Kings have their stuff together. If they finish 2018 looking like a team on the rise, the asset starts to lose its value.

That’s when New Orleans would demand that both Tatum AND Brown be included in the deal in addition to the Kings pick. Heck, even if the Kings look horrible, the Pels would likely demand both. It’s Anthony Davis. Shoot for the moon.