Zion Williamson Trade Buzz: Paul Pierce links Pelicans superstar to $7,500,000,000 franchise 

Zion Williamson remains a fixture in the NBA rumor mill. The New Orleans Pelicans star recently returned from a hamstring injury that caused him to miss 27 games. Zanos’ troubles continued when the Pelicans suspended him for “failing to meet team standards.” On Friday, he was late for a flight to Philadelphia for a game against the 76ers.

Paul Pierce said on the "KG Certified" podcast that the New York Knicks, valued at $7.5 billion by Forbes, should be interested in Williamson. The former Boston Celtics star brought up Josh Hart and a “shooter” as part of a package to get the high-flying forward. New York will likely have to give up multiple first-round picks to acquire the No. 1 pick in the 2019 NBA draft.

Williamson’s talent is undeniable. Kevin Garnett, Pierce’s co-host and former teammate, called "Zanos" a “generational talent” in 2023. Health, though, has always been an issue for the Pelicans forward.

Since entering the NBA, Zion Williamson has played 184 out of 410 games. He has played nine out of the New Orleans Pelicans' 41 games this season. Knee, hamstring, foot, personal reasons and suspension have been among the many reasons he hasn’t been available. The Knicks would likely be taking a huge risk if they want to get the two-time All-Star.

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Zion Williamson’s salary an obstacle to a potential trade to New York Knicks

Zion Williamson is entering the second of a five-year, $197 million contract he signed in 2022. He is in the books for $36.7 million, $39.4 million next season and $42.1 million for the 2026-27 campaign. The Knicks are $535K above the punishing second apron, making it necessary to send out a player or players to match Williamson’s salary.

A straight-up trade for OG Anunoby ($36.6 million) could work, but the Pelicans will likely ask for coveted draft capital as well. Between 2025 to 2031, New York has four first-round picks, assets the Knicks will be hesitant to include for an oft-injured star with fitness issues.

Josh Hart, Miles McBride, Mitchell Robinson and draft picks could grease the wheels of a trade. All three, however, are crucial components of the Knicks’ campaign this season. It remains to be seen if the scenario Paul Pierce wants will come true.

Do you think the New York Knicks should trade for Zion Williamson? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.