BREAKING: Pelicans Trade CJ McCollum, Kelly Olynyk and Pick to Wizards for Jordan Poole, Saddiq Bey and No. 40 Pick
In a major offseason shakeup, the New Orleans Pelicans and Washington Wizards have agreed to a significant multi-player trade, sources confirmed late Tuesday.
According to league insiders, the Pelicans will send veteran guard CJ McCollum, forward Kelly Olynyk, and a future second-round pick to Washington. In return, the Wizards will send Jordan Poole, Saddiq Bey, and the No. 40 pick in this year’s NBA Draft to New Orleans.
The move marks a bold step for both franchises as they look to retool their rosters heading into the 2024-2025 season.
Full Trade Details:
✅ New Orleans Pelicans Receive:
Jordan Poole (Guard)
Saddiq Bey (Forward)
No. 40 Overall Pick (2024 NBA Draft)
✅ Washington Wizards Receive:
CJ McCollum (Guard)
Kelly Olynyk (Forward/Center)
Future Second-Round Pick
Pelicans Opt for Youth and Versatility
For New Orleans, the trade signals a clear commitment to youth, athleticism, and long-term potential. By acquiring Jordan Poole, 25, and Saddiq Bey, 25, the Pelicans add two players with proven scoring ability and untapped upside.
Poole, a former NBA champion with Golden State, averaged 17.4 points, 3.8 assists, and 2.6 rebounds last season for the Wizards. While his time in Washington was turbulent, many believe a fresh start in New Orleans — alongside stars like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram — could reignite his offensive explosiveness.
Bey adds size and shooting on the wing, providing valuable floor spacing and defensive versatility. His ability to play multiple positions fits well with New Orleans’ fast-paced, positionless style.
Wizards Add Veteran Stability
On the other side, the Wizards bring in experienced leadership and scoring consistency by acquiring CJ McCollum. The 32-year-old guard averaged 18.2 points, 4.5 assists, and shot over 39% from three-point range last season, continuing his reputation as one of the league’s most reliable perimeter threats.
Veteran big man Kelly Olynyk also provides frontcourt depth, playmaking from the center position, and valuable locker room presence for a Wizards team still searching for an identity in their ongoing rebuild.
A Win-Win, or Risky Gamble?
Analysts are already debating the implications of the deal. Some see it as a smart, forward-thinking move for New Orleans, while others question whether Poole can find consistency and maturity in a new environment.
For the Wizards, the trade offers immediate stability, veteran presence, and additional future draft capital, but it also represents a shift away from their youth-centric rebuild approach.
What’s Next?
The trade is expected to be finalized pending physicals and league approval. Both teams are likely not finished making moves as the NBA Draft approaches and free agency looms.
For now, though, this blockbuster deal ensures that both the Pelicans and Wizards will have drama
tically new looks heading into next season.
