A more aggressive offer for Zion Williamson
In this more aggressive offer for Zion Williamson, the New York Knicks would offer the basic framework of the previous deal, which included Julius Randle, Immanuel Quickley, Quentin Grimes, and two future first-round picks. New York would also need to up their offer a bit in order to meet a large asking price from the Pelicans. In upping their offer, the Knicks include a 2026 first-round pick and Mitchell Robinson.
In total, the Pelicans would be getting three first-round picks, three quality young players, and a pretty good “salary filler” in Randle. This may not be a “superstar haul,” but is so much better than the Portland Trail Blazers got in exchange for Damian Lillard. This is a deal that would help New Orleans’ future after losing Zion and still allow them to compete right now with C.J. McCollum and Brandon Ingram.
If the Pelicans wanted that balance between building for the future and still competing now, this would be a good haul for Zion. Still, it may not be enough. And good thing the Knicks have another potential offer in their back pocket.