The Hawks just can't stop winning.
Well, at least off the court. While the season is chugging along at yet again approximately .500 ball for the Atlanta Hawks, the gift that keeps on giving in its stead is the New Orleans pick – completely unprotected for the 2026 NBA Draft.
Thanks to the Pelicans' deep desire to add Derik Queen to their roster's mix last summer, the Hawks stand to benefit not only Asa Newell – who they traded down to acquire in last year's draft – but also the Pelicans' 2026 draft pick, currently sitting at a beautiful 2nd-best in the entire league, in terms of lottery odds.
The Pels, to their credit, have been plagued by injuries again and again, leaking over into this season from years and years prior. As Dyson Daniels so famously put it, the organization is cursed – the injuries keep on piling up for the hopeless Pelicans.
Injuries aside, the Pelicans absolutely have one item in their control – who they may (or may not) choose to trade for.
Recently, the ever-controversial name Ja Morant has been heavily linked to being traded to New Orleans. Amidst coaching controversy in Memphis, as well as a growing belief that the organization is headed towards a deep rebuild – sparked by a colossal haul received from the Desmond Bane deal – Morant appears to be on the move, sooner rather than later.
With all these green lights, what's the hold up for the Pelicans to get it done?
The Pelicans are refusing to budge.
There was a catch – the Grizzlies were asking for one first round pick in addition to any of the above packages. The Pelicans, likely deeply traumatized from their recent fleecing at the hands of the Atlanta Hawks last summer, were reportedly completely and utterly unwilling to part ways with any pick – even if it was protected, as the Grizzlies specified.
If the Pelicans pass up such a golden opportunity to trade for a bona fide star (at a wonderful discount, to boot), this benefits the Hawks greatly. Morant can win games that have no business being won. Even this season, he's still shown his capability as a primary scorer, dropping 40 points on December 30th against the Philadelphia 76ers.
As the Pelicans continue to trudge their totipalmate through the murky bayou waters, the Hawks benefit with each passing day as they give up victory after victory. The further the Pels fall, the juicier their pick will be this summer.
Thanks again, New Orleans!