The New Orleans Pelicans aren't interested in trading in-demand wing Herb Jones, sources told The Athletic's Dan Woike.
Jones has recently been linked with the Los Angeles Lakers, who rank 21st in the league in defensive rating (117.7) and would benefit from a two-way player of his skill set.
Any potential offer from the Lakers would likely need to include an expiring contract and a future first-round pick, which could potentially come in the 2031 or 2032 drafts, Woike adds.
Jones can't be traded until after Jan. 14, per league rules, following his three-year, $68-million extension with the Pelicans in July.
The 27-year-old is averaging 9.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.6 steals across 17 games this season for New Orleans. He earned NBA All-Defensive first-team honors in 2024 after being selected to the All-Rookie second team in 2022.
The 3-22 Pelicans sit last in the Western Conference and are expected to be sellers at the Feb. 5 trade deadline.
