Breaking: The New Orleans Pelicans are trading CJ McCollum, Kelly Olynyk and a future second-round pick to the Washington Wizards for Jordan Poole, Saddiq Bey and the No. 40 pick, sources tell Shams Charania.

:aking Trade: Pelicans and Wizards Swap Key Players and Picks**

a significant offseason move, the New Orleans Pelicans have agreed to trade **CJ McCollum**, **Kelly Olynyk**, and a **future second-round pick** to the Washington Wizards in exchange for **Jordan Poole**, **Saddiq Bey**, and the **No. 40 pick** in the 2025 NBA Draft, per Shams Charania.

 

For the **Pelicans**, this trade signals a shift toward youth and long-term upside. Jordan Poole, just 26 years old, brings shot creation and offensive firepower. Although his efficiency dipped in Washington, he averaged over 20 points per game and showed flashes of elite scoring during his time with the Golden State Warriors. Saddiq Bey, also 26, adds wing depth and two-way potential, though he is recovering from an ACL injury. The addition of the 40th overall pick offers another opportunity to draft a rotational piece or developmental talent.

 

This move allows New Orleans to retool around Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram with a younger supporting cast. Financially, Poole’s long-term contract (\$128 million through 2027) is a gamble, but the Pelicans are betting on a bounce-back season in a new environment. Bey’s impending restricted free agency will be another key decision point.

 

For the **Wizards**, this is a salary cap play and a leadership move. By acquiring McCollum and Olynyk, both veterans on expiring or shorter-term deals, Washington clears significant long-term salary. CJ McCollum brings scoring, stability, and veteran mentorship to a young team with no clear offensive leader. Olynyk provides versatility as a stretch big and can help space the floor. The additional second-round pick continues the Wizards’ asset accumulation during their rebuild.

 

Washington now projects to have over **\$100 million in cap space in 2026**, positioning them to be major players in free agency or take on contracts in exchange for more draft capital. Shedding Poole’s and Bey’s salaries further aligns with their long-term flexibility strategy.

 

### Conclusion

 

This trade reflects diverging priorities: New Orleans is taking a calculated risk on youth and upside, while Washington is staying disciplined with its rebuild by clearing salary and adding future assets. It’s a deal that could benefit both teams depending on how Poole adapts and whether the Wizards can leverage their cap space effectively