The Future Money Saver
Pelicans receive: Bradley Beal
Wizards receive: Lonzo Ball, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, 2023 Lakers first round pick
While reports from Charania last week also indicated the Pelicans would likely hold extension talks with Lonzo Ball this summer, the first time he’ll be extension-eligible in his career. But with a max deal potentially coming for Brandon Ingram this summer as well, this iteration of the Pelicans could get expensive fast.
Instead of spending the money on Ball, the Pelicans could decide to spend a bit more and bring in Beal, who could potentially be a better fit. A core of Jrue Holiday, Beal, Ingram and Williamson is a playoff contender at the least and could put the Pelicans into the discussion as one of the best teams in the Western Conference.