The New Orleans Pelicans have made a clear stand as the NBA trade deadline approaches on February 5. Sources say the club plans to keep Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III, Herb Jones, Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears rather than shopping them around for trades. Teams around the league are being told that these players will remain with New Orleans after the deadline.
New Orleans is 8-31, the second-worst record in the NBA, and has struggled to find consistent success this season. Still, the organization appears committed to its current core, rather than splitting it up into midseason deals.
Zion is still the focus despite rumors
Despite persistent trade talk, Zion Williamson is staying put. The two-time All-Star has struggled with injuries again this season, missing time with a hip adductor strain and a hamstring issue. When available, he was productive, averaging 22.4 points, 5.9 rebounds and 3.4 assists on 56.2 percent shooting.
Williamson’s contract runs through 2028, putting New Orleans in control for the next few seasons. That financial security makes him a building block, even during a disappointing campaign.
Zion sends the baseline and works his way through the contact 💪
Williamson scores 20 PTS in the first half while the Pels are within striking distance!
Tap to watch the 2nd half: https://t.co/Rul4TIG0hh pic.twitter.com/MS7743Bh0j
— NBA (@NBA) January 1, 2026
Murphy, Queen and Fears locked up
Trey Murphy III is one of the most efficient two-way forwards in the league, averaging over 21 points and six rebounds with elite shooting splits this season. That production has helped generate trade interest in recent seasons, but New Orleans is now out of serious deals.
Rookies Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears also remain part of the team’s long-term picture. Queen has booked several nights in double figures and seems ready to become a key piece. Fear has shown scoring and playmaking potential, adding depth on defense.
Herb Jones, known for his defense, is also off the table. The Pelicans recently extended his contract, locking him in until the late 2020s.
No big sales in prospect
While other rotation players like Jose Alvarado or Saddiq Bey can still change scenery, New Orleans appears poised to keep its top names. The decision to retain the core signals a belief in growth over selling assets for a quick reset.
With chemistry and player development a priority, the Pelicans are hoping continuity pays off as they approach the trade deadline and beyond.
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