The New Orleans Pelicans are currently struggling at the bottom of the Western Conference standings, holding a record of 10-34. Despite the team’s evident talent, injuries and other factors have hindered their performance. As a result, the Pelicans’ front office is actively exploring trade options ahead of the NBA deadline, particularly with teams in the Eastern Conference.
Among the potential targets is Bennedict Mathurin of the Indiana Pacers, who could significantly impact the Pelicans if acquired. The Pelicans are reported to be interested in trading for Mathurin, the 2022 sixth overall pick, especially in light of the Pacers’ interest in Yves Missi, the 2024 No. 21 draft pick.
The financial logistics of a trade present challenges. Mathurin is set to earn $9.1 million for the 2025-26 season, while Missi is on a lower contract at $3.3 million. Due to the Pelicans’ status as a hard-capped team, they would need to offload at least $2.2 million in salary to facilitate a trade. Potential candidates for inclusion in the deal could include players like DeAndre Jordan ($2.2 million), Jose Alvarado ($4.5 million), and others.
A viable trade framework would likely see the Pelicans offering a combination of players, which could include Jordan Hawkins ($4.7 million) or even smaller contracts such as those of Micah Peavy ($1.2 million) and Karlo Matkovic ($1.9 million). The Pacers may prefer a package that combines Missi with Hawkins, as this would enhance their roster while also providing them with a young, athletic player in Missi who fits their fast-paced playing style.
In terms of on-court performance, Mathurin has emerged as a scoring asset for the Pacers, averaging 17.8 points per game this season, with a notable 36.6 percent shooting accuracy from three-point range. His ability to attack the basket has made him a valuable player, with nearly 30 percent of his points coming from inside the paint. Over his career, Mathurin has showcased consistency in scoring in the paint, making him an ideal fit for a Pelicans team that often struggles to convert points per game, currently ranked 20th in the league.
The addition of Mathurin could also address the Pelicans’ offensive woes. Currently, the starting lineup, projected to include players like Zion Williamson and Herb Jones, ranks 21st in points per game, averaging just 76.8. Replacing Jones with Mathurin could elevate the performance of the starting unit, particularly given Jones’s recent struggles, shooting below 40 percent from the field.
Beyond his scoring ability, Mathurin’s personality and competitive nature could serve as a cultural catalyst for the Pelicans. His intensity and drive to win mirror that of players like Dillon Brooks, known for being a culture-setter on his own team. The Pelicans have been in need of a player who can not only perform on the court but also inspire teammates to elevate their game. Williamson, while immensely talented, has not consistently demonstrated the discipline required for leadership, leaving a gap that Mathurin could fill.
In summary, as the trade deadline approaches, the New Orleans Pelicans are weighing the potential benefits of acquiring Bennedict Mathurin from the Indiana Pacers. This move could address both their immediate performance issues and instill a winning mentality throughout the team. With the right adjustments and a strategic trade, the Pelicans could turn their season around and emerge as a competitive force in the Western Conference.
