The New Orleans Pelicans haven't had the greatest start to the NBA season, as they're currently 8-21 and in last place in the Western Conference. Part of the reason for their struggles is the fact that star forward Zion Williamson has yet to play a game this season as he has been recovering from a foot injury, among other things. Even with Williamson's status up in the air, the Pelicans reportedly have a very interesting trade deadline stance.

That is shocking, So the 8-21 Pelicans want to be buyers at the trade deadline and possibly compete for a spot in the play-in tournament?

They are still well behind the 11-16 Portland Trail Blazers, who currently hold the 10th seed out west, so this would require quite a push from New Orleans, especially if Williamson isn't healthy. While not likely, it's still certainly possible that the Pelicans could make a run at the tournament.

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Per Bleacher Report, the Pelicans would want to trade center Jaxson Hayes, the former lottery pick from the 2019 NBA Draft, to look to improve their roster around Williamson and fellow forward Brandon Ingram.

Hayes by himself wouldn't be the most attractive trade asset, though he has flashed his athleticism and shot-blocking ability during his short tenure in New Orleans. Perhaps the Pelicans could pair Hayes with a valuable draft pick and a veteran player in an attempt to acquire another piece alongside Williamson.

Based on these rumors, the last-Pelicans still plan on contending, even with Zion Williamson's status in limbo. And that's a very surprising stance.