For New Orleans, the trade reflects a shift toward a younger, more flexible roster. Poole and Bey are both in their mid-20s, aligning with a core that includes Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III, Herb Jones and Dejounte Murray.
Poole, once a key contributor to Golden State’s 2022 title run, averaged 20.5 points last season and shot a career-best 37.8% from deep. But his inconsistency remains troubling. Even at his best, Poole swings between scoring bursts and long cold spells. He also carries an extra year of salary compared to McCollum, making him more expensive in the long run.
Bey adds perimeter defense and spacing, though he’s yet to fully deliver on his early-career promise. The Pelicans hope a fresh environment and expanded role will help him stabilize.
Despite those hopes, this trade raises several questions for New Orleans. The team saved $5 million in the deal, helping them avoid the luxury tax. But the fit on the court looks shaky. The Pelicans still lack a proven floor general. Murray, returning from an Achilles injury, and Poole—a score-first guard—don’t inspire confidence as a backcourt pairing.
There’s also the risk of overpaying. In 2026–27, Poole and Murray will cost the team around $68 million. Neither is a guaranteed starter on a contending team. Poole played his best winning basketball, coming off the bench for the Warriors.
Conflicting Timelines, Clashing Strategies
The Pelicans now boast a younger lineup without a single player over 30. But roster alignment in age doesn’t guarantee on-court synergy. The team seems to be doubling down on Williamson as the team’s primary playmaker. His health continues to be a concern though. And while Poole adds offense, his defensive liabilities compound Murray’s post-injury questions.
This deal doesn’t clarify the Pelicans’ strategy. If the plan is to stretch the floor for Zion and lean on him as a point forward, then it’s risky without reliable secondary creators. Drafting a steal with the No. 40 pick would help, but that’s a gamble.
Meanwhile, the Wizards used the CJ McCollum trade to create room for a rebuild the right way: with patience, culture, and future cap space. They may not be chasing wins next season, but they are building something sustainable.
The Wizards needed to reset their culture and prepare for the future. McCollum gives them both leadership and flexibility. The Pelicans gained youth and spacing but muddled their already uncertain identity.
Only one front office walked away with clarity—and that makes Washington the clear winner.