Paul George could be the next stranded star to join Anthony Davis in New Orleans, according to trade rumors buzzing around the league.
The New Orleans Pelicans have orchestrated the biggest trade before the deadline by acquiring Demarcus Cousins from the Sacramento Kings. The Pelicans got Cousins and Omri Casspi from the Kings for Buddy Hield, Tyreke Evans, Langston Galloway and a 2017 first and second draft picks, potentially setting up other blockbuster deals before February 23.
While other teams would surely explore the idea of improving their respective rosters, the Pelicans' efforts of tinkering their lineup may not be over yet. According to ESPN's Justin Verrier, the Pels have shown interest in trading for George.
Adding George would give the Pelicans a Big Three of their own, which is very well enough for the team to compete well in the playoffs. However, the Pelicans have very few tradable assets for a potential George trade, especially after dealing for Cousins. Moreover, a friendly new CBA could keep George in Indiana, but anything could still happen as what the Pels were able to pull off.
The Pacers are reportedly looking to find pieces in the trade market to surround George with a better supporting cast. According to ESPN's Chris Haynes, the Pacers are willing to move their 2017 first round draft pick to further improve the team's roster.
"In an attempt to secure help for All-Star forward Paul George, the Indiana Pacers have made their 2017 first-round pick available in a trade, league sources said," Haynes wrote.
This could also be a sign that the Pacers won't trade George before the deadline, especially considering the Pacers' standing in the East. But if Indiana would suddenly explore rebuilding, the Pelicans could have a great shot of quickly being a title contender.
Video courtesy: YouTube/FreeDawkins
For more of the latest NBA trade rumors, follow @hoopsdontstop30 on Twitter.