Report: Warriors have discussed trade scenario sending Kelly Oubre Jr. to Pelicans, possibly for Lonzo Ball

Just when I was getting used to Kelly Oubre Jr. blowing kisses to opponents and empty arenas, my world gets flipped upside-down.

A day after Golden State’s altered lineup got off to hot start and finished the Timberwolves, 130-108, various reports claim the Warriors’ front office has discussed a scenario that would send Oubre to the Pelicans in exchange for perhaps guard Lonzo Ball or J.J. Redick.

The Athletic’s Shams Charania wrote that the Pelicans are looking to potentially unload some players from its roster. With a 5-10 record in New Orleans, teams have called about Ball and Redick, per Charania. Also according to the dialed-in NBA writer, the Warriors have had initial discussions with the Pelicans.

Golden State Warriors
The Warriors and Pelicans discussed a potential deal involving Kelly Oubre Jr., sources said. There isn’t traction as of yet. Like many conversations around this time, it is a scenario.
The Athletic

Each player, Ball and Redick, has some appeal for Golden State. Ball, a tall point guard, could be a fantastic fit to play next to the unique superstar, Stephen Curry. Redick is one of the league’s most respected long-distance shooters and has a game similar to the injured Klay Thompson’s, though just on offense.

I don’t see this trade happening, however. Oubre is too good at defense, which is what Warriors coach Kerr has repeatedly mentioned as his priority.

But time will tell. Anything is possible around the trade deadline in the NBA.

BONUS INFO:

According to KRON4 News’ Jason Dumas, the Pelicans likely called the Warriors about this scenario, not the other way around.

I’ve been told it’s likely that is was the Pelicans who reached out to the Warriors, re: Kelly Oubre.

GSW is not actively shopping him but
he is an attractive asset to many teams because of his expiring contract. @kron4news
— Jason Dumas (@JDumasReports) January 26, 2021