CJ Mc Collum - Jordan Poole
The New Orleans Pelicans have officially traded veteran guard CJ McCollum, forward Kelly Olynyk, and a future second-round pick to the Washington Wizards. In return, the Pelicans will receive scoring guard Jordan Poole, wing Saddiq Bey, and the No. 40 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
The trade is expected to be finalized in early July when the league allows the transactions to be final.
𧩠A Strategic Reset for Washington
The Wizards continue their long-term rebuild, focusing on flexibility and future cap space. By acquiring McCollum and Olynyk on expiring deals, Washington creates significant cap relief going into the 2026 offseason.
The front office appears intent on building around younger, cost-controlled players while using veteran contracts to manage the salary cap and possibly mentor emerging talent.
âThis move clears the books and gives us room to maneuver,â a league source familiar with the deal said. âCJ and Kelly will bring leadership while freeing up long-term space.â
đ New Orleans Rolls the Dice on Youth
The trade is more of a gamble for the Pelicans, as it brings in Jordan Poole and Saddiq Bey, both 26 and under contract for two more seasons.
- Poole averaged 20.5 points per game last season and brings a scoring punch, but has struggled with consistency and efficiency.
- Coming off ACL surgery, Bey has shown flashes of two-way potential when healthy.
New Orleans also receives the 40th pick in this weekâs draft, giving them a chance to add another developmental piece to a roster in transition that they can possibly use in the future.
đź Whatâs Next?
- The Wizards are focused on cap space, development, and long-term positioning.
- The Pelicans are banking on a youth movement and hoping Poole and Bey can blossom in new roles. Everyone will be watching.
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