Top 3 landing spots for CJ McCollum as Pelicans reportedly shop veteran

The New Orleans Pelicans appear ready to part ways with CJ McCollum. According to NBA reporter Evan Sidery, the Pelicans have been struggling to find teams interested in acquiring Brandon Ingram. As a result, McCollum has emerged as the next best trade candidate.

New Orleans sits at the bottom of the Western Conference standings with a 4-16 record. Given their situation, the organization seems poised to rebuild the roster, starting with McCollum's potential departure.

Having that said, here are some of the best landing spots for McCollum if the Pelicans decide to let him go.

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3 potential landing spots for CJ McCollum

#1. Chicago Bulls

NBA: Chicago Bulls at New Orleans Pelicans - Source: Imagn

Rumors about the Chicago Bulls trading Zach LaVine have long been circulating. The Bulls appear to be nearing a rebuilding phase after letting go of DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso this summer, and LaVine could be next on the trading block.

Considering that the Pelicans are seeking reinforcements, acquiring Zach LaVine might be a viable option for them. A trade centered around McCollum could pique Chicago’s interest.

McCollum is signed to a two-year contract worth $63.9 million. Meanwhile, LaVine has approximately $88.9 million left on his deal, excluding a player option. To balance the trade, the Bulls could receive picks and/or young role players from the Pelicans.

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#2. LA Lakers

NBA: New Orleans Pelicans at Los Angeles Lakers - Source: Imagn

The LA Lakers are a perennial contender for trade discussions involving high-profile players. Over the past few seasons, the Lakers have actively reshuffled their roster, retaining only LeBron James and Anthony Davis as core pieces.

The Lakers could consider bundling D'Angelo Russell with role players Gabe Vincent, Cam Reddish and Jaxson Hayes, offering the Pelicans reinforcements to address their injury issues. Adding CJ McCollum would provide the Lakers with a seasoned playoff veteran and a reliable off-ball scoring option.

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#3. Milwaukee Bucks

NBA: Milwaukee Bucks at New Orleans Pelicans - Source: Imagn

There have been rumors that the Milwaukee Bucks are ready to let go of Khris Middleton in exchange for a solid third option that could efficiently complement the duo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. Under the circumstances, Milwaukee could be the perfect landing spot for CJ McCollum.

If this trade materializes, it would be a full-circle moment, reuniting McCollum with his former Trail Blazers teammate Lillard. Together, they could ignite the Bucks’ offense and strengthen their push for another championship.