The New Orleans Pelicans have indicated a willingness to discuss deals involving center Yves Missi and swingman Jordan Hawkins, league sources told Jake Fischer of The Stein Line. Clubs that contacted New Orleans about forwards Trey Murphy III and Herbert Jones were turned away, but rival executives came away believing Missi or Hawkins could be moved.
Missi, 22, started 67 games and logged 26.8 minutes per contest as a rookie in 2024-25. This season he has opened only seven games and is averaging 18.2 minutes after falling behind newcomer Derik Queen in the rotation. The Indiana Pacers have already inquired about the 7-footer, according to Fischer.
Hawkins, selected 14th overall in 2023, is enduring his most challenging NBA campaign. The 6-6 wing is posting 4.4 points in 14.2 minutes a night while shooting 30.3 percent from beyond the arc, a dip that could limit his trade value.
Rockets staying patient amid skid
The Houston Rockets have dropped four of their past six games and are 8-9 since a 15-5 start, yet team officials are not rushing to seek additional playmaking help, Fischer reported. Houston played 23 of its first 36 contests on the road, and there remains optimism that guard Fred VanVleet (torn ACL) could rejoin the lineup before the playoffs.
Clippers surge cools trade chatter
When the Los Angeles Clippers opened the season 6-21, opposing teams believed stars James Harden and Ivica Zubac might be available. Those hopes have faded after L.A. won 11 of its last 13 to climb back into postseason contention.
Suns and Blazers draw watchful eyes
Rival executives are monitoring the Phoenix Suns and Portland Trail Blazers as potential stealth buyers ahead of the trade deadline. Phoenix has captured nine of its past 12 outings, while Portland won seven of eight before recent losses to New York and Golden State. Both clubs possess several mid-tier contracts considered useful for matching salaries in prospective deals.
Trade discussions are expected to intensify as the February deadline approaches, with Western Conference teams weighing whether to add, stand pat, or pivot toward longer-term plans.
Source: Hoops Rumors
